Czech and Slovak Presidents Dedicate Historic Clock Tower in Cedar Rapids, Celebrating Immigrant Heritage

In a significant event marking the strong bonds between the Czech Republic, Slovakia, and the United States, the presidents of the Czech Republic and Slovakia visited Cedar Rapids, Iowa, to dedicate a new clock tower. This historic visit, the first by Czech and Slovak presidents to the city in nearly three decades, highlighted the enduring legacy of Czech and Slovak immigrants in the region.

The newly dedicated clock tower, named the Buresh Immigration Clock Tower, is located in the Czech Village neighborhood and features an astronomical clock, or orloj, similar to the famous one in Prague. This unique clock tower was transformed from its original form after surviving flood and derecho damage, and it now includes 12 figurines that rotate on the hour to the music of Czech composers Antonín Dvořák and Bedřich Smetana.

A Symbol of Heritage and Friendship

The clock tower is a poignant symbol of the strong historical and cultural ties between the Czech Republic, Slovakia, and the United States. It was dedicated in the presence of hundreds of visitors, including Czech President Petr Pavel and Slovak President Peter Pellegrini. The event marked a full circle moment, as it was nearly 30 years after the last visit by Czech President Václav Havel, Slovak President Michal Kováč, and U.S. President Bill Clinton to the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library in 1995.

The 61-foot tower, originally built in 1995, has been renovated to complete its original vision. It features figurines depicting traditional professions of Czech and Slovak immigrants, such as a farmer, blacksmith, coal miner, and meat-packer. These figurines rotate on the hour, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the immigrants who settled in Cedar Rapids.

The project was made possible through a $1.6 million contribution, with a significant $250,000 down payment from the late Ernie Buresh, a retired banker and philanthropist. The tower was renamed in his honor, reflecting his dedication to the project. Buresh's wife, Joanne, noted that the inclusion of a dog statue on the south side of the tower was a special request from her late husband, who loved dogs.

Celebrating Immigrant Contributions

Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds emphasized the significant impact of Czech and Slovak immigrants on the state's economy and culture. 'The legacy of those courageous immigrants remains alive and well in our state,' Reynolds said. Cedar Rapids is home to more people of Czech and Slovak heritage than any other city in the world outside of Prague, reflecting the enduring bond between these communities.

The dedication ceremony included a roundtable conversation between the presidents and local officials, as well as a tour of the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library. The museum is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, making the event even more significant. The presidents were presented with gifts, including leather Harley Davidson vests, and Pellegrini donated a Slovakian kroj (folk costume) to the museum.

Cedar Rapids Mayor Tiffany O’Donnell highlighted the city's slogan, 'Welcome is our Language,' and noted that the orloj is poised to become a major attraction, demonstrating the importance of international relationships and cultural exchanges.

The event was a testament to the perseverance and dedication of the immigrants who first made their home in Cedar Rapids. As Czech President Petr Pavel said, 'It is now up to us to carry on their legacy while remembering their stories. We will continue to build a solid partnership between our nations based on our shared history, values, interests, and enduring friendships.'