Originally broadcast 5/5/08:
Jim Kirchherr checks in on the reconstruction and restoration efforts at St. Alphonsus Church in St. Louis’ Grand Center neighborhood. Heavily damaged in a fire during August 2007, the historic Catholic church is now covered in scaffolding, with the congregation using the gymnasium next door for mass. The church sustained damage to the roof and steeple from the fire and smoke, as well as water damage inside, but when work is finished the structure will be stronger than before.
2 Comments
May 10, 2008 at 6:09 pm
The reconstruction of St. Alphonsus “Rock” Church has given Plasterers’ Local 3 yet another opportunity to save part of St. Louis’ rich architectural heritage. Jack Shipley did indeed come out of retirement to help Gypsum Specialty Contractors save the church. He’s teaching a new generation of plasterers the fine art of ornamental plastering there. Jack’s unassuming personality comes through in the piece as he recounts some of the other “ornamental” projects he’s been instrumental in preserving. Jack mentioned the Fox Theater, Powell Symphony Hall and the Old Post Office but he also practiced his art at the Tivoli Theater, the Renaissance Hotel and Continental Building in recent years. Lest you think Jack is one of a kind, the foreman on the job, Mike Roellig, is a master of the plastering craft in his own right. It’s because of craftsmen like Jack and Mike that, when the need arises, competent plasterers are available in St. Louis to restore and protect our history.
May 29, 2008 at 7:19 pm
Rheims says : I absolutely agree with this !