builder

James Rodwell

James Rodwell was a builder who was very active in Williamsburgh and Bushwick from 1834 through the 1880s. In addition to his work as a builder, Rodwell was also a real estate speculator and served as Fire Commissioner for the City of Brooklyn and was a director for various banks and fire insurance companies in Williamsburgh.

Joseph Berlenbach

Joseph F. Berlenbach, father of architect Francis J. Berlenbach, was listed as a carpenter in the 1872 Brooklyn city directory (at 174 Meserole Street). In the same year he was listed as the architect of rectory for Holy Trinity Church on Montrose Avenue (as Joseph Berndach). The reference probably refers to his son, but could also refer to his role as a builder. This is the only year that Joseph Berlenbach appears in the directory. In 1870, 1871 and 1873, Francis appears in the directories, with numerous name variations (Franz, Burlingbach, etc.).