Iconic Woolworth Building: A Glimpse of 1910s NYC

This photograph captures the iconic Woolworth Building in New York City, a hallmark of early 20th-century architecture. Completed in 1913, it was designed by architect Cass Gilbert and became known as the “Cathedral of Commerce.” Standing at 792 feet, it was the tallest building in the world until the completion of the Chrysler Building in 1930. Its unique Gothic-style design features ornate terracotta detailing and a distinctive tower, which not only illustrates the ambition of its developer, Frank Woolworth, but also typifies the eras architectural innovation.

In this specific image, taken between 1915 and 1920, the building is framed amidst the bustling activity of Lower Manhattan, showcasing the urban environment of the time. The Woolworth Building was innovative for its use of reinforced concrete, allowing for its impressive height and distinctive verticality. As a pioneer of skyscraper design, it set the stage for the future developments in high-rise construction, influencing countless buildings that followed. The photograph serves as a visual record of this landmark during a period of rapid economic change and urban growth in the United States.