The Covellite Theatre & Lounge:
A masterpiece in the heart of Uptown Butte
Stained Glass Restoration Project
The Covellite Theatre Stained Glass Restoration Project will complete the preservation and reinstallation of three original stained glass windows from the 1896 First Presbyterian Church, now the Covellite Theatre: the east and west rose windows and the large south-facing Gothic arch.
This project restores one of Butte’s recognizable architectural treasures ensuring its preservation for generations. The restoration re-establishes a defining element of the building’s 1896 Gothic design and brings renewed attention to the craftsmanship of Butte’s historic churches, a legacy tied to the city’s mining-era prosperity and cultural heritage.
These windows were removed in the 1980s and entrusted to Father Dan Hillen in Helena for restoration as part of his Cathedral of St. Helena project. Before his passing, Father Hillen cleaned, repaired, and re-leaded 1/3 of the glass, which was later returned to Butte, where it has been safely stored for over two decades. After much searching, the current leadership of the theatre was able to locate and receive the glass as a donation from a previous building owner.
Through a generous grant from the Superfund Advisory Trust and Redevelopment Authority (SARTA), $21,000 of our original $95,000 goal has already been reached. Allowing us to begin the work in June 2026. Our goal is to raise the remaining $74,000 by Covellite Presents 3rd Anniversary since restarting operations on August 25th, 2026.
Under the guidance of Montana Historic Restoration LLC, the remaining work—including rebuilding four missing south window panels—will be completed and installed, restoring the façade’s original artistry. If you’re interested in assisting with the stained glass cleaning and restoration, please reach out to info@covellitepresents.org or give us a call at 406-333-1658.
