News Summary
A service in Birmingham honored the legacy of the Wales Window and the four young girls who lost their lives in the 1963 bombing at the 16th Street Baptist Church. The event gathered community members and guests, highlighting the enduring connection between Birmingham and Wales, and reflected on the importance of unity and compassion in the face of racial violence.
Birmingham – A commemorative service honoring the legacy of the Wales Window and the victims of the 1963 bombing at the 16th Street Baptist Church took place on Friday morning. This significant event brought together the local community and visitors to pay tribute to four young girls who lost their lives in the tragic act of violence that shook the nation.
The service commenced at 9 a.m. and was open to the public at no charge. Attendees included Mick Petts, son of the esteemed Welsh stained-glass artist John Petts, who created the Wales Window as a response to the bombing, and the Llansteffan-based musical group, the Water Poets. Their presence underscored the lasting bond between Wales and Birmingham, a relationship solidified in the aftermath of the horrific event nearly six decades ago.
The bombing on September 15, 1963, targeted the 16th Street Baptist Church in Birmingham and resulted in the deaths of four young girls: Addie Mae Collins, Denise McNair, Carole Robertson, and Cynthia Wesley. This act of racial terrorism was pivotal in igniting the civil rights movement in the United States. The commemorative service served not only as a reminder of this dark chapter in history but also as an opportunity to reflect on the values of unity and compassion that emerged from it.
In response to the tragedy, John Petts created the Wales Window, a stained-glass representation featuring a Black Christ figure with outstretched arms, symbolizing hope and solidarity. The window, gifted by the people of Wales to the church, has since become an emblem of resilience for the community. The design is noted for its visible fingerprints and artistic symbols, which highlight the human touch and emotional depth behind its creation.
The Water Poets performed original compositions during the service, which further enriched the emotional atmosphere. Over the past four years, the group has focused on sharing the story of the Wales Window and its connection to Birmingham through music, adding layers of meaning to its historical significance. The commemorative service celebrated not only the memory of the victims but also the enduring spirit that continues to connect these two communities.
In addition to honoring the past, the event raised awareness about the current challenges faced by the church. The stained-glass windows, including the Wales Window, are at risk from Alabama’s stormy weather. To protect these historical artifacts, initiatives are underway to install protective glass over the windows. Public voting for a grant to support this initiative is currently open and will close on October 26. Those interested can find more details on the church’s official website.
This commemorative event also highlights the importance of preserving civil rights stories, especially in light of recent funding cuts that threaten historical education and documentation. Remembering the victims of the bombing serves as a crucial part of the ongoing dialogue about race, equality, and justice in America.
The legacy of the 1963 bombing and the subsequent creation of the Wales Window continue to resonate today, reminding us of the power of community in the face of adversity. The 16th Street Baptist Church stands as a testament to that unity and the ongoing struggle for civil rights.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Construction of Education and Visitors Center at 16th Street Baptist Church
Commemorating 60 Years of the Wales Window for Alabama
Birmingham and Wales Strengthen Historic Friendship Through Recent Delegation Visit
Birmingham Remembers Victims of 16th Street Baptist Church Bombing on 61st Anniversary
Additional Resources
- WVTM 13: Art and Remembrance Converge as Wales and Birmingham Celebrate Enduring Unity
- Google Search: Wales Window 1963 Bombing
- BBC Sport: Football Articles
- Encyclopedia Britannica: 16th Street Baptist Church Bombing
- BBC News: UK Wales
- Google News: 16th Street Baptist Church Wales Window
Author: STAFF HERE BIRMINGHAM WRITER
The BIRMINGHAM STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBirmingham.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Birmingham, Jefferson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Sidewalk Film Festival, Sloss Music & Arts Festival, Magic City Classic, and civil rights commemorations. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Birmingham Business Alliance and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as UAB Medicine, Regions Bank, and Encompass Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREHuntsville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.
