For generations, Centralia High School (CHS) has been a pillar of pride for the community. Whether it’s excellence in academics, athletics, or the arts, the school’s legacy is woven into the hearts of those who’ve passed through its halls. Today, that legacy shines even brighter—quite literally—thanks to the recent restoration and relocation of a cherished stained glass window. Once housed in the famed Trout Gymnasium, this iconic window has found its new home at CHS, carrying with it the history, values, and spirit of Centralia.

A LEGACY REBORN
The stained glass window is not just any decorative piece—it’s an artistic representation of the union between athletics and academics. The window’s intricate design, featuring two basketball players in the midst of an offensive-defensive tangle, embodies the balance of mind and body that has long been central to education at CHS. Latin phrases like “Mens Sana in Corpore Sano” (a sound mind in a sound body) and “Paratus in Omnia” (prepared for all things) frame the athletic imagery, reminding students and community members of the importance of well-rounded education.

But as iconic as the window is, its future was once uncertain. Originally installed in the old high school’s Trout Gymnasium—a beloved building that witnessed generations of Centralia athletes and students—the window faced deterioration as the structure aged. That’s where Jan Monken, a longtime community member, stepped in. “I just couldn’t stand by and watch the windows deteriorate,” she says. “Something had to be done to preserve them.”

AN UNLIKELY JOURNEY
Jan’s determination to save the window was contagious. She approached Pastor Seth Baltzell of City Hope Church, which now occupies the former CHS building, and together they worked to find a way to bring the window back to its rightful place. Jan then enlisted the help of Principal Reid Shipley, a lifelong Centralia resident and alumnus, and they launched a grassroots campaign to raise the necessary funds.

During our conversation, I said to Jan and Reid, ‘It sounds like an old-fashioned barn raising.’ Reid agreed, recalling how quickly the community rallied around the project. “Alumni, local businesses, and even current students contributed. People felt a real connection to this window—it meant something to everyone.”

The Centralia High School Alumni Association played a pivotal role in organizing the fundraising efforts, setting up an online platform and leveraging alumni networks. In a matter of months, the community had raised over $100,000—more than enough to cover the costs of restoration.

A FAMILY CONNECTION REDISCOVERED
Once the funds were secured, the search for a restoration expert began. Enter the Emil Frei Company of St. Louis, renowned for its work in stained glass restoration. When Jan contacted them, she didn’t expect what came next. “The lead artist came out and looked at the window and said, ‘I’d know my great-grandfather’s work anywhere,’” Jan recalls. “Turns out, Emil Frei’s great-grandfather had originally designed the window for Centralia’s Trout Gymnasium.”

This unexpected family connection made the restoration even more meaningful. The Emil Frei team carefully removed the fragile panels, restored missing or broken pieces, and ensured the colors shone as brilliantly as they had when first installed nearly 100 years ago.

A NEW HOME, A RENEWED SPIRIT
In July of 2024, the restored window was reinstalled in its new home at Trout Arena, where it now takes pride of place. The installation wasn’t without its challenges—contractors had to deconstruct part of a wall and create custom lighting to highlight the stained glass’s intricate details. “It was worth every bit of effort,” Reid says. “Now, when you walk into the gym, it’s the first thing you see. It’s a symbol of our school’s history and future.”

The unveiling ceremony brought together alumni, community members, and students, all of whom were eager to see the window in its new setting. Mayor Bryan Kuder even read a proclamation honoring the window’s restoration and the community effort behind it.

For Jan and Reid, the project represents more than just preserving a piece of art. “This window connects generations,” Jan says. “It reminds us where we’ve been and inspires us to keep striving for excellence.”

LOOKING ONWARD AND THROUGH…
As the stained glass window continues to watch over the students and athletes of CHS, it serves as a powerful reminder of the community’s dedication to its young people. “This isn’t just a piece of glass,” Reid says. “It’s a part of who we are. It’s a celebration of everything we believe in—hard work, education, athletics, and the support of this amazing community.”

With the window shining brightly once more, Centralia’s legacy is set to inspire many more generations of students, athletes, and community members alike.