Joe Sequens at work on the Burchay building downtown. Click to enlarge.
photo by John Wilson
If you look closely at the top of the refurbished Burchay building and Central Block downtown, you'll see gleaming copper steeples. They are the handywork of master craftsman Joe Sequens.
"I trained in Europe as an apprentice in seven different skills," says the native of Prague in the Czech Republic.
Mr. Sequens said he has worked on 167 churches and historical buildings throughout Europe. He has no fear of heights and often works at dizzying altitudes.
He came to the U.S. 22 years ago to visit friends and stayed. He makes his home in Red Bank.
He does work throughout the country with his Bohemia Enterprises.
Some of his work is local, including some refurbishing of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church in East Ridge.
The gleaming copper guttering and downspouts on the Burchay building are also his handiwork.
He has reached age 60 and is disappointed that others are not willing to learn the delicate arts of shaping the stones and metals on old buildings.
"It's a shame you can't find anyone who wants to learn the arts," he says, while admitting it is hard work.
He says the Burchay building and Central Block are important buildings that were well worth preserving.
Copper Burchay steeple
photo by John Wilson