Chi Rho Roundel
Phipps, Ball & Burnham 1920
7'2 1/2" x 39"
John W. Allen
DESCRIPTION: This monogram is a form of the Chi Rho, a symbol for Christ. The upright letter is a combination of a cross and a "p," signifying the first two letters Chi (X) and Rho (P) of the Greek word for Christ, "Christos." They were put together to form this symbol for Christ. The "N" stands for NIKA, or conqueror, in Greek.
SYMBOLISM: This adaptation of the Chi Rho symbol stands for Christ the Victor. As a sign of our Lord's victory, the upright Chi Rho was placed in the letter "N."
MEMORIAL: John W. Allen was born in Homer, New York on June 1, 1858, the son of William S. and Mary (Sprague) Allen. On August 2, 1886, John married Cornelia M. Pierce, daughter of Lewis and Sarah Pierce who are remembered in Chalice Roundel (Window #16).
At 21, John became assistant lighthouse keeper at Alligator Reef, off Islamorada. He held a number of positions during his lifetime: Collector of Revenue, director of the First National Bank, and was also in the furniture business.
In 1900 he lived at 700 Fleming Street, at or near the present site of the Monroe County Library. John died on March 24, 1918. His brother, George Whiting Allen, is remembered in Christ Among the Doctors (Window #108).
Source: The Golden Cockerel: The Art, Symbolism & History of the Stained Glass Windows, St. Paul's Episcopal Church, Key West, Florida by Winifred Shine Fryzel.
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