Coronado Public Library Unveils Historic Oz Stained Glass
Nine magnificent stained-glass windows celebrating L. Frank Baum’s Oz characters are installed at the public library.
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Archival Chronicle & Historical Significance
Historical Chronicle
Nine monumental stained-glass windows designed by artist Brenda Schneider depicting Dorothy, the Scarecrow, and the Emerald City in the Coronado Public Library.
In 2005, during a major multi-million dollar expansion and modernization of the Coronado Public Library, the city unveiled a monumental work of public art honoring L. Frank Baum’s historic residency in the Crown City: the Wizard of Oz Stained Glass Installations, created by internationally acclaimed master artist Alfredo Arreguín.
The breathtaking installations, comprising large glass panels and illuminated transoms, depict beloved characters from the Oz books, including Dorothy Gale, the Scarecrow, the Tin Woodman, the Cowardly Lion, and Toto, woven together with intricate patterns of tropical flora, Pacific sea life, and the turrets of Hotel del Coronado in Arreguí’ signature pattern-painting style.
Installed prominently in the librar’ central galleria, the stained-glass windows bathe readers in dazzling jewel-toned light, celebrating the magical legacy of the author who penned six Oz books in Coronado. The installation draws art lovers and literary pilgrims from around the world, making the library a world-renowned destination for Oz enthusiasts.
Oz Books Authored in Coronado
Explore and purchase authentic classic editions of the fairy tales and Oz adventures written by L. Frank Baum during his Crown City winter seasons.
The Marvelous Land of Oz
Written during Baum’s inaugural winter season in Coronado (1904). Re-introduced the magical kingdom with Tip, Jack Pumpkinhead, and the Wooden Sawhorse.
Queen Zixi of Ix
Penned entirely while staying in Coronado and widely praised by Baum as his personal favorite fairy tale, featuring the Magic Cloak woven by the fairies.
Ozma of Oz
Authored at the sun desk of 1101 Star Park Circle. Reunited Dorothy Gale with Oz and introduced Tik-Tok the Clockwork Man, the Hungry Tiger, and the Nome King.
Dorothy and the Wizard in Oz
Drafted in Coronado following the great 1906 San Francisco earthquake, sending Dorothy and the Wizard through subterranean fairy kingdoms back to the Emerald City.
The Road to Oz
Penned on Star Park Circle as Dorothy, the Shaggy Man, Button-Bright, and Polychrome the Rainbow’s Daughter follow enchanted roads to Princess Ozma’s royal birthday party.
The Emerald City of Oz
Baum’s crowning Coronado creation, mirroring the grand Victorian spires of Hotel del Coronado as Aunt Em and Uncle Henry move permanently into the royal capital.
John Dough and the Cherub
Written in Coronado during the winter of 1905-1906, chronicling the adventures of a gingerbread man brought to life by an elixir and his winged friend Chick the Cherub.
The Wonderful Wizard of Oz
The immortal classic that birthed the Yellow Brick Road and Emerald City, leading Baum to Coronado where he immortalized the town in verse as "The Queen of Fairy Land."
Other Key Milestones in this Era
Coronado Beach Voted #1 Beach in America
Coastal scientist Dr. Stephen Leatherman ("Dr. Beach") crowns Coronado Central Beach the #1 Beach in the United States.
Coronado Dog Beach Established as Leash-Free Haven
The northern expanse of Coronado Beach is officially designated an open 24/7 off-leash canine sanctuary.
Silver Strand Coastal Wetland & Wildlife Preservation
Protective habitat corridors established for endangered California least terns and snowy plovers.
Primary Archival Sources & Official Portals
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