The Woolworth Building

I remember when most buildings in New York City were opened to the public. After September 11, 2001 almost all the buildings re-enforced their security and most were closed to the public. In September 2013 one of the most beautiful buildings, the Woolworth, opened its doors to tours on Wednesday. Not too long ago, I had the opportunity to tour this neo-Gothic building across from City Hall.

Our guide provided us with insights as to how the building was built. Between 1913 and 1929 it was the tallest skyscraper in New York. The 5 & 10 kingpin, Frank Woolworth, had amassed a fortune by 1910. Our guide mentioned that he thought about both his legacy and his rivalry with the Metropolitan Life Insurance Company, which had recently built the tallest building.

In 1910 he commissioned architect Cass Gilbert to build the Woolworth building as his legacy, there was a corner section which he did not have, but when he was able to buy it, Cass Gilbert was directed to redesign the building from 20 to its current height of 60 stories.

Entering the Woolworth Building, one is spellbound because it’s like stepping into a cathedral…a cathedral of commerce. Tiffany designed elevator doors, Heineicke & Bowen stained glass window, inscribed with 1879 for the first Woolworth store opening and 1913 for the completion date of his building. Heinecke & Bowen were in charge of the interior. You need to look under the beams to find caricatures of Cass Gilbert holding a miniature of this building, Frank Woolworth with stacks of coins, and others which were sculpted by Tom Johnson.

If you want to see grandiose architecture and extraordinary interior, the Woolworth Building is a for you; a landmark, a historical and a beautiful building that catches an era of American opulence.

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