History That Doesn't Suck 180: “A Race to the Sky”: The Rise of New York City’s Chrysler, Manhattan Company, and Empire State Buildings
Jun 2, 2025
Dive into the thrilling race to erect the tallest skyscraper in New York City during the late 1920s. Experience the intense rivalry between architects William Van Alen and Craig Severance, fueled by ambition and innovation. Marvel at the breathtaking designs of the Chrysler and Manhattan Company Buildings, while a dark horse—the Empire State Building—emerges to dominate the skyline. Discover the drama, secrecy, and technological feats that defined this iconic chapter of architectural history. It's a battle of egos and engineering that reshaped a city's horizon.
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Empire State Building's Grand Opening
- On May 1, 1931, the Empire State Building grandly opened with Al Smith and his grandchildren cutting the ribbon.
- They celebrated it as the tallest building in the world and a monument for future generations.
Origins of Skyscrapers in NYC
- Early New York skyscrapers were inspired by church steeples and advanced by skeletal steel frames.
- Innovations like William LeBaron Jenney's design and steel strengthened by the Bessemer process enabled skyscrapers to rise higher.
NYC's Pioneering Zoning Laws
- NYC introduced zoning in 1916 to regulate skyscraper height and sunlight on streets.
- Setbacks in design mitigated the impact of massive buildings on neighboring properties and public spaces.