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Journey back in time to Manhattan, New York, USA

(New York City) (New Amsterdam) (Washington Heights)

Visit Manhattan, New York, USA. Discover its history. Learn about the people who lived there through stories, old newspaper articles, pictures, postcards and ancestry.

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Manhattan, New York, USA - Nestle Food New York, NY  Found at Old Drugstore, St Augustine, Florida

Manhattan, New York, New York, USA

The first capital of the United States was New York City. In 1789 George Washington took his oath as president on the balcony at Federal Hall.

The first presentation of 3D films before a paying audience took place at Manhattan's Astor Theater on June 10, 1915.

Gennaro Lombardi opened the first United States pizzeria in 1895 in New York City.

The first Boy's Club was established by Edward Henry Harriman in New York City in 1876.

Joseph C. Gayetty of New York City invented toilet paper in 1857.

The first public brewery in America was established by Peter Minuit at the Market (Marckvelt) field in lower Manhattan. 50states.com

Washington Heights is a neighborhood in the northern portion of the New York City borough of Manhattan.



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Postcards and Memories of Manhattan, New York, USA

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There is MUCH more to discover about Manhattan, New York, USA. Read on!

Manhattan Nostalgia: Vintage Photos, Ads, and Postcards

Nestle Food
New York, NY

Found at Old Drugstore, St Augustine, Florida
Manhattan, New York, USA

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Nestle Food
New York, NY

Found at Old Drugstore, St Augustine, Florida
Palmer's Skin-Success Soap
Made in New York, NY

Found at Old Drugstore, St Augustine, Florida
Manhattan, New York, USA

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Palmer's Skin-Success Soap
Made in New York, NY

Found at Old Drugstore, St Augustine, Florida
Vaseline Petroleum Jelly
Made in New York, NY

Found at Old Drugstore, St Augustine, Florida
Manhattan, New York, USA

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Vaseline Petroleum Jelly
Made in New York, NY

Found at Old Drugstore, St Augustine, Florida
Read more about Robert Augustus, Sir CHESEBROUGH photo of ancestor
1880s
F. A. O. Schwarz
Manhattan, New York, USA

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1880s
F. A. O. Schwarz
Read more about Frederick August Otto SCHWARZ photo of ancestor
Perry Davis' cough medicine
New York, New York
Found at The Way It Was Museum, Virginia City, Neva
Manhattan, New York, USA

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Perry Davis' cough medicine
New York, New York
Found at The Way It Was Museum, Virginia City, Nevada
Who has the Oldest Sewing Machine?
A new
Manhattan, New York, USA

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Who has the Oldest Sewing Machine?
A new "Singer" given in exchange for it

The Singer Manufacturing Co.
New York City

Ladies' Home Journal
February 1898
Read more about Isaac Merritt SINGER photo of ancestor
The Edison New Standard Phonograph
Price $20
National Phonograph Co., New York

The Ladies' Home
Manhattan, New York, USA

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The Edison New Standard Phonograph
Price $20
National Phonograph Co., New York

The Ladies' Home Journal
November 1898
Read more about Thomas Alva EDISON photo of ancestor
Woolworth Building from City Hall Park, New York City
Manhattan, New York, USA

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Woolworth Building from City Hall Park, New York City
Read more about Frank Winfield WOOLWORTH photo of ancestor
Times Square, New York City

Times Square is one of the most iconic and bustling commercial hubs i
Manhattan, New York, USA

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Times Square, New York City

Times Square is one of the most iconic and bustling commercial hubs in the world, located in the heart of Manhattan, New York City. It is often referred to as "The Crossroads of the World" or "The Center of the Universe." Times Square is famous for its bright, dazzling billboards, massive digital displays, and its energetic atmosphere, attracting millions of visitors from around the globe every year.
Herald Square, New York

Herald Square is a bustling commercial and transportation hub located in
Manhattan, New York, USA

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Herald Square, New York

Herald Square is a bustling commercial and transportation hub located in the borough of Manhattan, New York City. It is situated at the intersection of Broadway, Sixth Avenue (also known as Avenue of the Americas), and 34th Street. The square is named after the New York Herald newspaper, which was headquartered there in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Skyline view of New York City
Manhattan, New York, USA

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Skyline view of New York City

Manhattan, New York, USA

(IL) - Chicago Tribune, Chicago, Illinois
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Curb Market, Broad Street
Manhattan, New York, USA

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Curb Market, Broad Street
Fort Tryon, Washington Heights, New York City

Fort Tryon Park is a public park located in the Hud
Manhattan, New York, USA

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Fort Tryon, Washington Heights, New York City

Fort Tryon Park is a public park located in the Hudson Heights and Inwood neighborhoods of the borough of Manhattan in New York City.

Beginning in January 1917, philanthropist John D. Rockefeller, Jr., bought up the "Tryon Hall" estate of Chicago industrialist C. K. G. Billings and several others to create Fort Tryon Park. wikipedia
The Jumel Mansion, Washington Heights, New York City

The landmark Morris-Jumel Mansion is located
Manhattan, New York, USA

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The Jumel Mansion, Washington Heights, New York City

The landmark Morris-Jumel Mansion is located in the aptly named Washington Heights section of Manhattan. Built in 1765 for British military officer Roger Morris, this National Historic Landmark once served as headquarters for General George Washington during the American Revolutionary War.
St. Patrick's Cathedral, 1905

St. Patrick's Cathedral is a Catholic cathedral in the Midtown Manh
Manhattan, New York, USA

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St. Patrick's Cathedral, 1905

St. Patrick's Cathedral is a Catholic cathedral in the Midtown Manhattan neighborhood of New York City. It is the seat of the Archbishop of New York as well as a parish church. The cathedral occupies a city block bounded by Fifth Avenue, Madison Avenue, 50th Street, and 51st Street, directly across from Rockefeller Center...

The cathedral was constructed starting in 1858 to accommodate the growing Archdiocese of New York and to replace St. Patrick's Old Cathedral. Work was halted in the early 1860s during the American Civil War; the cathedral was completed in 1878 and dedicated on May 25, 1879... wikipedia
Hester Street
Manhattan, New York, USA

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Hester Street
Macy's Department Store and Herald Square, 1909
Manhattan, New York, USA

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Macy's Department Store and Herald Square, 1909
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Shopping Center, 14th Street
Rothenberg & Co. department store
Manhattan, New York, USA

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Shopping Center, 14th Street
Rothenberg & Co. department store
Bowling Green

Bowling Green is a small public park in the Financial District of Lower Manhattan,
Manhattan, New York, USA

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Bowling Green

Bowling Green is a small public park in the Financial District of Lower Manhattan, New York City, at the southern end of Broadway. Located next to the site of the original Dutch fort of New Amsterdam, it served as a public place before being designated as a park in 1733. It is the oldest public park in New York City and is surrounded by its original 18th-century fence. It included an actual bowling green and an equestrian statue of King George III prior to the American Revolutionary War... wikipedia
Hotel McAlpin, 34th Street and Broadway

The Hotel McAlpin was constructed in 1912 by General Edwi
Manhattan, New York, USA

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Hotel McAlpin, 34th Street and Broadway

The Hotel McAlpin was constructed in 1912 by General Edwin A. McAlpin, son of David Hunter McAlpin. When opened it was the largest hotel in the world... wikipedia
Read more about Edwin Augustus MCALPIN photo of ancestor
McGown's Pass Tavern, Central Park, New York City, 1911

Located in the northern portion of Centra
Manhattan, New York, USA

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McGown's Pass Tavern, Central Park, New York City, 1911

Located in the northern portion of Central Park. It is the original tavern on the green.

"A narrow passage between the hills was named McGown’s Pass after Andrew McGown, owner of a popular tavern that sat alongside here. Kept in the McGown family, the tavern was torn down early in the century but rebuilt in the 1880s. In 1895, McGown’s was strangely granted its own election district as, being inside the park, it lay outside normal district boundaries. “There were four voters in this territory last year,” declared the New York Times. “They are four men employed at McGown’s Pass Tavern.” The tavern was eventually torn down in 1917." ... boweryboyshistory.com
The New Grand Central Depot, 42d Street, 1911
Manhattan, New York, USA

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The New Grand Central Depot, 42d Street, 1911
Manhattan Opera House, 1913
Manhattan, New York, USA

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Manhattan Opera House, 1913
Manhattan Hotel

Hotel Manhattan (also known as Manhattan Hotel) was a
Manhattan, New York, USA

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Manhattan Hotel

Hotel Manhattan (also known as Manhattan Hotel) was a "railroad hotel" on the northwest corner of Madison Avenue and 42nd Street in Manhattan, New York City, New York.

Built in 1895–1896, it was to an 1893 design by Henry Janeway Hardenbergh. Standing at 250 feet (76 m), it at one time held the record as "tallest hotel structure in the world"... It was razed in 1961 to make way for an office tower... wikipedia
Panorama of Lower Manhattan and Bay from top of Woolworth Building
Manhattan, New York, USA

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Panorama of Lower Manhattan and Bay from top of Woolworth Building
Flat Iron Building
Manhattan, New York, USA

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Flat Iron Building
Pell Street, Chinatown
Manhattan, New York, USA

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Pell Street, Chinatown
Hotel Commodore

The Commodore Hotel was constructed by The Bowman-Biltmore Hotels group. The stru
Manhattan, New York, USA

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Hotel Commodore

The Commodore Hotel was constructed by The Bowman-Biltmore Hotels group. The structure itself was developed as part of Terminal City, a complex of palatial hotels and offices connected to Grand Central Terminal and all owned by The New York State Realty and Terminal Company a division of The New York Central Railroad.

The Commodore was named after "Commodore" Cornelius Vanderbilt, the founder of The New York Central Railroad System, whose Statue adorns The Grand Central Driveway next door to the hotel to this day. The Commodore was designed by Warren & Wetmore and leased by The New York State Realty and Terminal Company to The Bowman-Biltmore Hotels Corporation of which John McEntee Bowman was President.

The Commodore opened its doors on January 28, 1919... nyc-architecture.com
Read more about Cornelius "The Commodore" VANDERBILT photo of ancestor
Madison Square Garden

Madison Square Garden (1879–1890) was an arena in New York City at the nort
Manhattan, New York, USA

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Madison Square Garden

Madison Square Garden (1879–1890) was an arena in New York City at the northeast corner of East 26th Street and Madison Avenue in Manhattan. The first venue to use that name, it seated 10,000 spectators. It was replaced with a new building on the same site.

After the death of Commodore Vanderbilt, who owned the site, his grandson William Kissam Vanderbilt took back control and announced on May 31, 1879, that the arena was to be renamed "Madison Square Garden."...

Demolition began in July 1889, and the second Madison Square Garden, which cost more than a half-million dollars to build, opened on June 6, 1890. It was demolished in 1926, and the New York Life Building, designed by Cass Gilbert and completed in 1928, replaced it on the site... wikipedia
Read more about William Kissam VANDERBILT photo of ancestor
Paterno Castle, Washington Heights, New York

The centerpiece of Paterno's seven-acre (2.8 ha) est
Manhattan, New York, USA

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Paterno Castle, Washington Heights, New York

The centerpiece of Paterno's seven-acre (2.8 ha) estate, located in what is now the Hudson Heights neighborhood of Manhattan, New York City, was Paterno's Castle, a Neo-Gothic four-story 35-room mansion... wikipedia
Read more about Charles Vincent (Canio) PATERNO photo of ancestor
Rogers Restaurant, Sixth Avenue and 45th Street
Manhattan, New York, USA

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Rogers Restaurant, Sixth Avenue and 45th Street
1927 advertisement

A Bit of New England in New York
Prince George Hotel
Fifth Ave. & 28th St.
Manhattan, New York, USA

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1927 advertisement

A Bit of New England in New York
Prince George Hotel
Fifth Ave. & 28th St.
A. M. Gutterson, Mgr.
1000 Rooms with Bath $3.0 and up
A Home in the Heart of Things

Built in 1904 with an addition in 1912, The Prince George Hotel was a key fixture in the vibrant Madison Square neighborhood, with prominent guests such as playwright Eugene O’Neill. The hotel was designed by architect Howard Greenley in the Beaux Arts style, and had many classical and Neo-Renaissance flourishes. Its ground floor included grand common areas including the Ladies’ Tearoom, the English Tap Room, the Hunt Room, and a spacious lounge that would later become The Prince George Ballroom.

For decades, The Prince George Hotel and its restaurants were favorite gathering places. Even in the 1960s, well past its heyday, the hotel continued to draw middle-class tourists visiting New York. But as tourism experienced a steep decline in the 1970s, The Prince George, along with many smaller New... Read MORE...
Chrysler Building

The Chrysler Building is an Art Deco skyscraper on the East Side of Manhattan i
Manhattan, New York, USA

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Chrysler Building

The Chrysler Building is an Art Deco skyscraper on the East Side of Manhattan in New York City, at the intersection of 42nd Street and Lexington Avenue in Midtown Manhattan. At 1,046 feet (319 m), it is the tallest brick building in the world with a steel framework, and it was the world's tallest building for 11 months after its completion in 1930...

Originally a project of real estate developer and former New York State Senator William H. Reynolds, the building was constructed by Walter Chrysler, the head of the Chrysler Corporation... wikipedia
Read more about Walter Percy CHRYSLER photo of ancestor
Gimbels, 1930

Gimbels arrived in New York in 1910, and in one fell
swoop created a famous depart
Manhattan, New York, USA

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Gimbels, 1930

Gimbels arrived in New York in 1910, and in one fell
swoop created a famous department store legend
which competed with its rival Macy's, one block away.
Read more about Adam GIMBEL photo of ancestor
Empire State Building, 1931

The Empire State Building is a 102-story Art Deco skyscraper in Midto
Manhattan, New York, USA

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Empire State Building, 1931

The Empire State Building is a 102-story Art Deco skyscraper in Midtown Manhattan, New York City. The building was designed by Shreve, Lamb & Harmon and built from 1930 to 1931. Its name is derived from "Empire State", the nickname of the state of New York... wikipedia
Midtown Manhattan, 1934
Manhattan, New York, USA

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Midtown Manhattan, 1934
Bond Spectacular Waterfall Sign in Times Square

Largest Spectacular Sign in the World. Bond Sign
Manhattan, New York, USA

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Bond Spectacular Waterfall Sign in Times Square

Largest Spectacular Sign in the World. Bond Sign on Broadway -- A full block from 44th to 45th Street in Times Square, 21,500 electric light bulbs, over two miles of vari-colored neon. 10,000 gallons of water pumped over the falls every minute by 23 giant pumps on the roof, same water used over and over. digitalcommonwealth.org
Radio City Music Hall, Rockefeller Center, 1947

Radio City Music Hall is an entertainment venue a
Manhattan, New York, USA

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Radio City Music Hall, Rockefeller Center, 1947

Radio City Music Hall is an entertainment venue and theater at 1260 Avenue of the Americas, within Rockefeller Center, in the Midtown Manhattan neighborhood of New York City. Nicknamed "The Showplace of the Nation", it is the headquarters for the Rockettes, the precision dance company. Radio City Music Hall was designed by Edward Durell Stone and Donald Deskey in the Art Deco style.

Radio City Music Hall was built on a plot of land that was originally intended for a Metropolitan Opera House, although plans for the opera house were canceled in 1929. It opened on December 27, 1932.. wikipedia

Discover Manhattan: History, News, Travel, and Stories

Add informationAdd History/News/Story
1524 - Giovanni de Verrazano enters New York harbor

The World Almanac of the U.S.A, by Allan Carpenter and Carl Provorse, 1996

Read more about Giovanni DE VERRAZZANO (VERRAZANO) photo of ancestor
1609 - September - Navigator Henry Hudson discovers island of Manhattan

historyorb.com

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1610 - June 10 - 1st Dutch settlers arrive (from NJ), to colonize Manhattan Island
In June 1610, the first Dutch settlers arrived at Manhattan Island, marking the beginning of Dutch colonization in the area. These settlers, likely from the ship "Tiger," arrived from New Jersey, which was then part of the Dutch colony of New Netherland. Their arrival laid the foundation for the Dutch presence in the region, leading to the establishment of the Dutch West India Company's trading post in 1624, which later became New Amsterdam, now known as New York City.
historyorb.com
June 10, 1610
1625 - New Amsterdam founded by Dutch colonists
In 1625, Dutch colonists established New Amsterdam, a settlement that would eventually become New York City. Initially, the Dutch settled in 1624 on Governor's Island, but soon moved to Manhattan in 1625 due to its advantageous location for trade and defense. The settlement was named New Amsterdam to honor the Dutch capital city, reflecting the ambitions of the Dutch West India Company to create a thriving trade hub in the New World.

Under the leadership of Peter Minuit, who famously purchased Manhattan from the indigenous Lenape people, New Amsterdam began to grow as a bustling port. The strategic location at the mouth of the Hudson River allowed it to become a center for commerce and immigration, setting the stage for its future development. This small Dutch settlement laid the foundation for what would become one of the world's most iconic and influential cities, New York City.
1626 - May 6 - Dutch colonist Peter Minuit buys Manhattan Island from local Indians for 60 guilders worth of trinkets
On May 6, 1626, Dutch colonist Peter Minuit famously purchased Manhattan Island from local Lenape Indians in exchange for goods valued at 60 Dutch guilders. This transaction is often cited as the origin of the purchase of Manhattan, although the exact details and circumstances of the deal remain somewhat shrouded in historical ambiguity. The exchange is said to have occurred on the southern tip of the island, where the Dutch established New Amsterdam, a key settlement that later grew into modern-day New York City.

The value of 60 guilders, often equated to around $24, has become legendary, representing what seems like a paltry sum for an island that would become one of the most valuable pieces of real estate in the world.
historyorb.com

Read more about Peter MINUIT photo of ancestor
1664 - British conquer New Netherland (New York)
In 1664, the British successfully conquered New Netherland, the Dutch colony located in present-day New York. This event marked a significant turning point in the history of the region, leading to the establishment of English control over the area. The conquest was part of broader conflicts between the European powers for dominance in the New World.

The British forces, led by Colonel Richard Nicolls, sailed into New Amsterdam, the capital of New Netherland, and demanded its surrender. The Dutch governor, Peter Stuyvesant, initially resisted but eventually surrendered without bloodshed due to the colony's weak defenses and the desire to avoid destruction. The British renamed the city New York in honor of the Duke of York, who later became King James II of England.
The World Almanac of the U.S.A, by Allan Carpenter and Carl Provorse, 1996
1704 - February 28 - Frenchman Elias Neau opens a school for blacks in NYC
Elias Neau (also spelled as Elias Neve) was a historical figure known for his missionary work among Native Americans in the 17th century. He was a French Protestant Huguenot who emigrated to the British American colonies.

Elias Neau played a significant role in establishing a school for Native American children in New York City in the early 1700s. The school, known as the "Charity School," aimed to educate and Christianize Native American children, as well as some African and European children from impoverished families. Neau's efforts were motivated by his desire to spread the Gospel and provide education to those in need.

He faced various challenges, including opposition from other colonists and the difficulty of gaining the trust of Native American communities. Despite these obstacles, Elias Neau persisted in his mission and left a lasting impact on the education and religious outreach to indigenous communities in the region.
www.onthisday.com

Read more about Elias NEAU
1712 - April 7 - Slave revolt in New York kills 6 white men, 21 African Americans executed
On April 7, 1712, a significant slave revolt erupted in New York City, marking one of the earliest and most brutal uprisings of enslaved African Americans in colonial America. The rebellion was sparked by harsh conditions and oppressive laws that enslaved Africans faced. Around 23 enslaved individuals armed themselves with guns, hatchets, and swords, and set a building on fire to draw attention. As the white colonists arrived to put out the fire, the rebels attacked, killing nine white men and injuring several others. The immediate response from the authorities was swift and severe; a military force was mobilized to capture the insurgents.

In the aftermath, 27 black men were apprehended. The colonial government conducted trials, resulting in the execution of 21 of the accused. They were hanged, burned alive, or broken on the wheel, sending a grim message intended to deter future revolts.
www.onthisday.com
April 7, 1712
1725 - First Newspaper in New York
The first [newspaper] in New York was "The New York Gazette," [published] in 1725.

The first issue of The New York Gazette and Weekly Post-Boy was published in 1725 by William Bradford, making it one of the earliest newspapers in colonial America.
colonialwarsct.org/ 1755.htm
1728 - December 17 - Congregation Shearith Israel of New York purchases a lot on Mill Street in lower Manhattan to build the city's first synagogue
Congregation Shearith Israel, also known as the Spanish and Portuguese Synagogue, is one of the oldest Jewish congregations in the United States. It is located in New York City and holds a prominent place in American Jewish history. Here are some key points about Congregation Shearith Israel:

Founding: The congregation was established in 1654 by Sephardic Jews who fled Recife, Brazil, and sought refuge in New Amsterdam (now New York City) after the Portuguese recaptured the region. This makes it the first Jewish congregation in North America.

Sephardic Tradition: The founders of Shearith Israel were Sephardic Jews of Spanish and Portuguese origin, and the congregation has maintained its Sephardic traditions and liturgy throughout its long history.

Synagogue Building: The congregation initially met in private homes until 1730 when it constructed its first synagogue building on Mill Street in Lower Manhattan. Since then, the congregation has moved to several locations in New... Read MORE...

1736 - March 31 - Belleuve Hospital founded in a New York City almshouse - 1st public hospital in the US
Bellevue Hospital is one of the oldest and most well-known hospitals in the United States and has a rich history dating back to its founding in 1736. It was established as an infirmary to care for poor, sick, and mentally ill individuals in New York City. Over the years, it evolved into a prominent general hospital and has played a significant role in public health and medical education. The hospital is situated on First Avenue in Manhattan, adjacent to the East River. Its central location makes it a vital healthcare provider for residents of New York City.

onthisday.com
March 31, 1736
1765 - New York City hosts a colony conference dealing with the King of England's Stamp Act
In 1765, New York City was the site of a crucial event in American colonial history, hosting a conference of representatives from nine colonies to discuss the ramifications of the Stamp Act imposed by the British Parliament. The Stamp Act, passed in March of that year, required colonists to pay a tax on every piece of printed paper they used, including legal documents, newspapers, and even playing cards. This tax was deeply resented by the colonists, who believed it to be a violation of their rights as British subjects, as they had no representation in Parliament.

The conference, known as the Stamp Act Congress, convened in October 1765 at New York's City Hall. Delegates from Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, and South Carolina gathered to formulate a unified response to the Stamp Act. The Congress drafted a petition to King George III and the British Parliament, asserting that only the colonial assemblies had the... Read MORE...

1770 - January 19 - Battle of Golden Hill (Lower Manhattan)
The Battle of Golden Hill, also known as the Battle of the Great Fire or the Battle of Harlem Heights, was a significant event that took place in New York City during the early days of the American Revolutionary War. It occurred on January 19, 1770, and holds the distinction of being one of the first public clashes between British soldiers and American colonists in New York City.

In the years leading up to the American Revolution, tensions between the American colonists and the British authorities were escalating over issues like taxation without representation and other oppressive measures imposed by the British government. In response to growing unrest, British troops were stationed in cities across the American colonies to maintain control and enforce British policies.

On January 19, 1770, a group of soldiers from the 29th Regiment of Foot, stationed in New York City, encountered a group of young colonists who were protesting against the Quartering Act. The Quartering Act... Read MORE...

1777 - New York City, long occupied by British troops, was evacuated.
In 1777, during the American Revolutionary War, New York City, which had been a strategic stronghold for the British since they captured it in 1776, experienced significant military maneuvers. The British occupation of New York City provided them with a vital base of operations, facilitating control over the Hudson River and enabling communication and reinforcement between their forces in Canada and the southern colonies. This occupation posed a constant threat to the Continental Army and the fledgling American government, which sought to disrupt British control and reclaim the city.

The evacuation of British troops from New York City in 1777 marked a pivotal moment in the Revolutionary War. This move was largely influenced by the changing dynamics of the war, including the American victory at the Battle of Saratoga in October 1777, which shifted the momentum in favor of the Continental Army. The British, recognizing the growing strength and strategic prowess of the American... Read MORE...

January 23, 1780 - The coldest day of the coldest month of record in the northeastern U.S.
A British Army thermometer in New York City registered a reading of 16 degrees below zero. During that infamous hard winter the harbor was frozen solid for five weeks, and the port was cut off from sea supply.
WeatherForYou.com
January 23, 1780
1785 - New York City named nation's capitol
In 1785, New York City was designated as the nation's capital, a significant milestone in American history. After the Revolutionary War, the newly independent United States faced the challenge of establishing a stable government. The Continental Congress, seeking a neutral and accessible location, chose New York City due to its central position among the states, its thriving economy, and its significant port, which made it an ideal hub for political and commercial activities.

This period in New York City's history was marked by vibrant political activity and rapid growth. The city hosted the Confederation Congress from 1785 to 1789, during which key decisions and discussions shaped the emerging nation. It was in this dynamic environment that the United States Constitution was ratified in 1788, and George Washington was inaugurated as the first president in 1789, an event that symbolized the city's brief yet crucial role as the capital before the federal government moved to... Read MORE...

1789 - George Washington inaugurated as first U. S. president in New York City

www.worldatlas.com/ webimage/ countrys/ namerica/ usstates/ nytimeln.htm

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1792 - July 1 - A tremendous storm (a tornado or hurricane) hit Philadelphia and New York City. Many young people were drowned while out boating on that Sunday.

WeatherForYou.com
1799 - September 1 - Bank of Manhattan Company opens in NYC (forerunner to Chase Manhattan)
On September 1, 1799, the Bank of the Manhattan Company opened its doors in New York City, marking the inception of an institution that would eventually evolve into the Chase Manhattan Bank. Founded by Aaron Burr, the bank was initially chartered under the pretext of providing clean water to the city, a clever maneuver to bypass the political challenges associated with establishing a new financial institution. Burr's ingenious strategy involved including a clause in the bank's charter that permitted the surplus capital to be used for banking activities, thereby establishing the Bank of the Manhattan Company.

The bank played a pivotal role in the early financial landscape of New York, contributing to the city's economic growth and development. Over the years, it merged with several other banks, notably joining forces with the Chase National Bank in 1955 to form the Chase Manhattan Bank. This merger laid the foundation for what would become one of the largest and most influential... Read MORE...

1801 - The popular tabloid New York Post was originally established in 1801 as a Federalist newspaper called the New York Evening Post by Alexander Hamilton, an author of the Federalist papers and the nation’s first secretary of the treasury.
In 1801, Alexander Hamilton, a prominent figure in American history known for his role in shaping the nation's financial system, founded the New York Evening Post, which would later become the popular tabloid known as the New York Post. Hamilton, one of the authors of the Federalist Papers and the nation's first Secretary of the Treasury, established the newspaper as a Federalist publication. The Federalist Party, led by Hamilton, John Adams, and others, supported a strong central government and policies that favored business and industry.

Under Hamilton's guidance, the New York Evening Post became known for its articulate and influential commentary on political and economic issues of the time. Hamilton's vision for the newspaper reflected his own political beliefs and desire to shape public opinion in support of Federalist principles.
www.ereferencedesk.com/ resources/ state-facts/ new-york.html

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January 25, 1821 - The Hudson River was frozen solid during the midst of the coldest winter in forty-one years.
Thousands of persons crossed the ice from New York City to New Jersey, and refreshment taverns were set up in the middle of the river to warm pedestrians.
WeatherForYou.com
January 25, 1821
June 28, 1832: Cholera epidemic began in N.Y.C.
On June 28, 1832, New York City experienced the onset of a devastating cholera epidemic, which marked the first major outbreak of the disease in the United States. Originating in Asia, cholera had made its way to North America via European trade routes. The disease, characterized by severe diarrhea, dehydration, and often death, spread rapidly through the city's dense and unsanitary living conditions. The initial outbreak caused widespread panic, leading to significant social and economic disruptions as people fled the city or resorted to drastic measures to avoid infection.
The Old Farmer's Almanac www.almanac.com
June 28, 1832
1835 - AWFUL CONFLAGRATION !!
Our city has just been the theatre and the victim of the most disastrous visitation ever known to this Continent !! The heart of her business, her commerce, and her wealth, is now a blackened mass of smouldering ruins !! New York has received a blow, from the effects of which the utmost exertion of her fearless enterprise, the most liberal and beneficent application of her yet unbounded wealth, will hardly suffice to restore her. The homes of her 'merchant princes' are desolate, the citadels of their strength are in ashes !!

The appalling conflagration, which it is our melancholy duty to record, commenced at 9 o'clock on Wednesday evening, at which time the flames burst from the store of Comstock & Andrews, 25 Merchant St. near the Exchange. In twenty minutes, the whole block of wholesale stores, in the very center of the mercantile business of the city, was in a blaze, and the destroying element was rapidly extending its ravages in every direction. It would be vain to attempt... Read MORE...

1837 - May 10 – The Panic of 1837 begins in New York City.
On May 10, 1837, the Panic of 1837 began in New York City, marking the start of a severe financial crisis in the United States. The panic was triggered when banks in New York City ran out of gold and silver reserves, known as specie, and subsequently suspended specie payments. This meant they could no longer redeem commercial paper, such as banknotes and checks, for their full face value in gold or silver. The suspension of specie payments undermined public confidence in the banking system and caused widespread financial instability.

The immediate consequence of this event was a significant economic collapse that rippled across the nation. Banks failed, businesses went bankrupt, and widespread unemployment ensued. The Panic of 1837 ushered in a prolonged period of economic depression that lasted well into the 1840s, affecting all sectors of the American economy.
May 10, 1837
1853 - Exhibition of the Industry of All Nations
Exhibition of the Industry of All Nations was a World's Fair held in 1853 in what is now Bryant Park in New York City, in the wake of the highly successful 1851 Great Exhibition in London. It aimed to showcase the new industrial achievements of the world and also to demonstrate the nationalistic pride of a relatively young nation and all that she stood for. Jacob Aaron Westervelt, at that time Mayor of New York, was the President of the exhibition-committee. The general superintendent was Admiral Du Pont.

Opening on July 14, 1853 with newly sworn President Franklin Pierce in attendance, the fair was seen by over 1.1 million visitors before it closed on November 14, 1854. The fair featured its own glass and iron exhibition building – the New York Crystal Palace – directly inspired by London's. The Palace was destroyed by fire on October 5, 1858...

Notable exhibits:

Elisha Otis demonstrated an elevator equipped with a device called a safety brake, which revolutionized the... Read MORE...

1854 - Manhattan
Manhattan Island, sometimes called New York Island, in the S. E. part of New York, separated from the mainland by Harlem river. Length 15 miles, width from half a mile to 2 miles. It is co-extensive with the county of New York, and contains the city of that name.

New York, the metropolis of the above state, the most populous city, and the greatest emporium in the New World, and (with its suburbs, Brooklyn, Williamsburg. Jersey City, and Hoboken) the third in point of wealth and population of the cities of Christendom, is situated on the southern extremity of Manhattan island, at the junction of the Hudson and East rivers, about 18 miles from the Atlantic ocean; 87 N. E. of Philadelphia ; 187 N. E. of Baltimore; 225 N. E. of Washington ; 1428 N. E. of New Orleans; 1010 E. of St. Louis ; 722 E. of Cincinnati ; 340 S. of Montreal; 146 S. of Albany, and 207 S. W. of Boston. The city and county have the same limits, composing the whole of Manhattan island, 13 1/ 2 miles in length, and... Read MORE...


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1855 - August 1 - Castle Clinton in New York City opens as the first U.S. receiving station for immigrants.
Castle Clinton, also known as Fort Clinton, is a historic landmark located in Battery Park at the southern tip of Manhattan, New York City. It is one of the oldest surviving structures in New York City and holds significant historical importance.

Castle Clinton was originally constructed as a fort between 1808 and 1811 during the War of 1812. It was designed to serve as a defensive fortification against potential British invasions. The fort was named after New York City Mayor and New York Governor, DeWitt Clinton.

During the War of 1812, Castle Clinton played a defensive role in safeguarding New York City from possible British attacks. However, it never saw direct military action during the conflict.

Transformation into an Immigration Center: After the war, the fort was repurposed for various functions. In the mid-19th century, from 1855 to 1890, it was used as an immigration processing center, predating the more famous Ellis Island. Over eight million immigrants passed... Read MORE...

1856 - St. Valentine's Day.
This is Saint Valentine's Day, and if there has not been a wonderful reform in the general mind, since February last, a great many foolish lines will be written, and a great many bad ones sent to silly girls and vanity-stuffed young men, before night fall. The origin of St. Valentine's Day is not known. Among the traditions we have the following:

Madame Royale, daughter of Henry IV. of France, having built a palace near Turin, which, in honor of the saint, then in high esteem, she called it Valentine; at the first entertainment which she gave in it, she was pleased to order that the ladies should receive their lovers for the year by lots, reserving herself the privilege of being independent of chance and of choosing her own partner. At the various balls which this gallant princess gave during the year, it was directed that each lady should receive a nosegay from her lover, and that at every tournament the knights's trappings for his horse should be furnished by his allotted... Read MORE...

1857 - March 23 – Elisha Otis' first elevator is installed (at 488 Broadway, New York City).
The installation of Elisha Otis' first elevator marked a significant advancement in urban infrastructure and architecture. Located at 488 Broadway in New York City, this pioneering elevator was a pivotal development in vertical transportation, transforming how buildings were designed and utilized. Elisha Otis, the inventor, had demonstrated the safety of his elevator design just four years earlier at the 1853 New York World's Fair, where he dramatically cut the elevator's supporting rope to show that his safety brake would prevent it from falling.

The installation of Otis' elevator at Haughwout and Company was a testament to the growing need for efficient vertical transportation in urban centers, particularly in bustling commercial areas like New York City. This event not only revolutionized the way people moved within buildings but also paved the way for the construction of taller structures, influencing the city's skyline and urban development for decades to come.
March 23, 1857

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1857 - October 13 – Panic of 1857: New York banks close and do not reopen until December 12.
The Panic of 1857 was a severe economic crisis that occurred in the United States. It was one of the most significant financial downturns in the 19th century and had far-reaching effects on the country's economy and society.

The panic had several underlying causes. One of the primary factors was the overexpansion of credit, especially in the railroad and land speculation industries. The construction of numerous railroads and the rapid expansion of western lands were fueled by easy access to credit and speculative investments. However, these investments were often not backed by solid economic fundamentals, leading to a bubble that eventually burst.

Additionally, the Crimean War in Europe (1853-1856) had an impact on the American economy. The war disrupted trade, causing a downturn in exports for the United States and affecting various industries.

The Compromise of 1850, which was an attempt to address issues related to slavery in the newly acquired territories from the... Read MORE...

1858 - October 28 – Macy's department store, founded by R.H. Macy, opens for business in New York.
Rowland H. Macy opened R.H. Macy & Co. as a dry goods store in New York City. First-day sales totaled $11.06.
macysinc.com
October 28, 1858

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1863 - July 13 – American Civil War – New York Draft Riots: In New York City, opponents of conscription begin 3 days of violent rioting, which will be regarded as the worst in the history of the United States.
The New York Draft Riots were a significant civil disturbance that occurred in July 1863 during the American Civil War. The riots took place in New York City, which was a major port and commercial center at the time. The primary cause of the unrest was the newly instated Conscription Act, passed by the United States Congress in March 1863, which mandated a military draft to recruit soldiers for the Union Army.

Several factors contributed to the tension and anger that led to the outbreak of the riots:

The Conscription Act was deeply unpopular, especially among the working-class population of New York City. Many felt that it was unjust, as it allowed wealthier individuals to avoid the draft by paying a commutation fee or providing a substitute to serve in their place. This exemption favored the wealthy, leading to increased resentment among the working class.

Social and racial divisions were already prevalent in the city. The working-class Irish population, in particular, felt... Read MORE...

1864 - May 18 - The Civil War Gold Hoax was an 1864 hoax perpetrated by two US journalists to exploit the financial situation during the American Civil War.
On May 18, 1864, two New York City newspapers, the New York World and the New York Journal of Commerce, published a story that President Abraham Lincoln had issued a proclamation of conscription of 400,000 more men into the Union army. At the time, there were fierce battles taking place between Union and Confederate troops in Virginia and the public took it to mean that the war was not going well for the Union. Share prices fell on the New York Stock Exchange when investors began to buy gold, and its value increased 10%.
wikipedia.org
May 18, 1864
1865 - January 4 – The New York Stock Exchange opens its first permanent headquarters at 10-12 Broad near Wall Street in New York City.
The Exchange had formally existed since 1792, but had operated out of a series of packed Wall Street coffee-houses and rented offices. By the mid-nineteenth century, however, the need for a more permanent exchange became clear: the opening of the Erie Canal saw New York City rise to prominence as the nation’s financial center, while a surge in American enterprise and the invention of telegraphs, tickers, and transatlantic cables greatly increased trading capacity.
gilderlehrman.org
January 4, 1865
1867 - FIREWORK EXPLOSION - THREE MEN SERIOUSLY INJURED.
Yesterday afternoon at 5:30 o'clock, as EDWARD KENNY, a porter in the employ of Messrs. Purdy & Co., dealers in fireworks, at No. 34 Maiden Lane, was engaged in nailing the lid of a case containing a large quantity of "Union" torpedoes, he inadvertently drove a nail through one of the packages and a terrific explosion ensued, when KENNY was thrown several feet off, and sustained several serious external and internal injuries.

The contents of the case were entirely destroyed, the front window was blown out and the stock in the store somewhat disarranged, though no further explosions took place. The clerk in the store, MR. F. D. SMITH, was slightly injured by the concussion. MR. KENNY was removed to the New York Hospital, where he remains under treatment in a critical condition. The damage occasioned by the explosion to store and stock is estimated at $200.

The alarm bells range out the signal "No. 6" on the supposition that there was a fire. While Engine No. 12 was running... Read MORE...

1867 - Who Is Santa Claus?
Who is Santa Claus? To the little ones this would seem a very foolish question indeed, - as if everybody did not know who Santa Claus is! And, most certainly, you had better not put it to that experienced and downright young philosopher of eleven last June, who has, somehow or other, left the pure faith of childhood, and now laughs like an infidel - a mere VOLTAIRE - a perfect Mephistopheles - when the thing is mentioned, and cries out, "Ah! I know who Santa Claus is! There he is!" - pointing an irreverent finger in the direction of the oldest person in the room - one never hitherto suspected of coming down the chimney on a cold Winter's night in December, wearing a long beard and bringing lots of things for children on his back or under his arm.

Turning away, then, from this "enfant terrible" who plumes himself on not being "such a baby now," we would offer the query to the "grown-ups" - as the little doll's-dressmaker calls them - who know that every question of folk-lore is of... Read MORE...

1873 - September 18 – The New York stock market crash triggers the Panic of 1873, part of the Long Depression.
After the Civil War, the US banking system grew rapidly and seemed to be set on solid ground. But the country was hit by many banking crises. One of the worst happened in 1873 – during the time of the Freedman’s Bank.

The panic started with a problem in Europe, when the stock market crashed. Investors began to sell off the investments they had in American projects, particularly railroads. Back in those days, railroads were a new invention, and companies had been borrowing money to get the cash they needed to build new lines. Railroad companies borrowed using bonds, which were debt securities specifying how much a company was borrowing and how much interest it would pay.

When Europeans started selling their railroad bonds, there were soon more bonds for sale than anyone wanted. Railroad companies could no longer find anyone who would lend them cash. Many railroads went bankrupt.

One of the biggest banks in New York City was Jay Cooke & Company. I had invested a lot of money in ... Read MORE...

1873 - October 20 - P. T. Barnum’s Hippodrome opens in New York City featuring “The Greatest Show on Earth.” It is destroyed in a fire on December 23, 1873.
On October 20, 1873, P.T. Barnum opened his grand Hippodrome in New York City, promising "The Greatest Show on Earth." This venue was a colossal spectacle, housing a diverse array of performances that included circus acts, theatrical presentations, and other entertainment marvels designed to captivate audiences of all ages. Barnum's vision was to create an unparalleled entertainment experience, blending the thrill of the circus with the grandeur of a theater, and his Hippodrome quickly became a cultural landmark, drawing crowds eager to witness its wonder.

Tragically, the Hippodrome's brilliance was short-lived. On December 23, 1873, just two months after its grand opening, a devastating fire engulfed the building. The inferno consumed the entire structure, turning Barnum's magnificent creation to ashes and abruptly halting the vibrant performances that had enchanted New Yorkers.
http://www.independentsentinel.com/

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1875 - December 4 – Notorious New York City politician Boss Tweed escapes from prison and flees to Cuba, then to Spain.
On December 4, 1875, William M. “Boss” Tweed, notorious leader of New York City’s Democratic political machine, escaped from the Ludlow Street jail where he was being held and went into hiding in New York, while a civil case against him for misuse of city funds went forward. After Tweed was found guilty in absentia, he fled to Spain, where he was quickly captured and returned to New York City to serve out his sentence.

Tweed, a former bookkeeper, businessman, and member of several fraternal organizations, including the Masons, was elected an alderman in New York City in 1851. He was subsequently elected to the U.S. House of Representatives for one term (1853-55). He then returned to local politics and worked his way up New York City’s Democratic hierarchy by holding various elected and unelected positions in the municipal government...
loc.gov
December 4, 1875

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1879 - May 30 – New York City's Gilmore's Garden is renamed Madison Square Garden by William Henry Vanderbilt, and is opened to the public at 26th Street and Madison Avenue.
Originally it was a railroad passenger depot located at East 26th Street and Madison Avenue, the New York and Harlem Railroad, before they would move in 1871. Then, with tented roof, it would become P.T. Barnum's Great Roman Hippodrome. In 1876, the theatre became Gilmore's Garden, after Patrick Gilmore, a band leader. The building under his name housed flower shows, pedestrian marathons, the first Westminster Kennel Club Show in 1877, beauty contests, and concerts. Owned by the Vanderbilt family, William renamed it Madison Square Garden in 1879, continuing to present a variety of shows; boxing, track and field, and Barnum back with the elephant Jumbo. The first building had a capacity of ten thousand and was open-air.
americasbesthistory.com
May 30, 1879

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1880 - DESTRUCTION AND DEATH - A FRESH HORROR FURNISHED IN NEW YORK CITY.
FALL OF THE MADISON SQUARE GARDEN - THE BUILDING FILLED WITH PEOPLE IN AID OF A CHARITY - SEVERAL PERSONS KILLED AND MANY MORE INJURED.

New York, April 21. - An accident of a fatal character and which caused intense excitement, occurred at the Madison Square Garden tonight. The Hahnemann Hospital fair, which opened a week ago, was in progress, and there were about 800 people in the building. At half-past nine half the front of the building facing on Madison Avenue gave way, the wall falling outwards. Part of the roof also fell in with a crash. This portion of the building was used as a dancing hall and picture gallery of the fair. It is not at this time known how many persons were killed, but one lady has so far been and one wounded.
Two horses in the street were instantly killed, and one so badly injured that it had to be shot. Several hack drivers were injured. Commissioner German, and a large detachment of the fire department and police were promptly on the spot.

Bulletin -... Read MORE...

1882 - March 3 - NY Steam Corp begins distributing steam to Manhattan buildings
On March 3, 1882, the New York Steam Corporation began distributing steam to Manhattan buildings, marking a significant milestone in the history of urban infrastructure. This innovation was pivotal in providing a reliable and centralized source of heat and power to buildings throughout the city. The steam distribution system allowed for a more efficient and cleaner alternative to individual coal-fired furnaces, which were common at the time. This development not only improved the quality of life for residents by providing consistent heating but also contributed to reducing the pollution levels in the densely populated urban area.

The introduction of steam distribution to Manhattan's buildings also set the stage for the modernization of urban utilities. The system used a network of underground pipes to deliver steam from central plants to various buildings, which could then use it for heating, powering machinery, and even generating electricity. This early adoption of district... Read MORE...

1882 - September 4 - Thomas Edison flips the switch to the first commercial electrical power plant in history, lighting one square mile of lower Manhattan. This is considered by many as the day that began the electrical age.
On September 4, 1882, Thomas Edison ushered in a new era by flipping the switch to activate the first commercial electrical power plant in history. Located in lower Manhattan, New York, this momentous event illuminated one square mile of the bustling cityscape, marking the dawn of the electrical age. Edison's plant, known as the Pearl Street Station, was a pioneering endeavor that demonstrated the feasibility and practicality of supplying electricity to urban areas for lighting and other purposes.
September 4, 1882

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1883 - January 4 – Life magazine is founded in New York City.
"Life was founded January 4, 1883, in a New York City artist’s studio at 1155 Broadway. The founding publisher was John Ames Mitchell, a 37-year old illustrator, who used a $10,000 inheritance to launch the weekly magazine. Mitchell created the first Life nameplate with cupids as mascots; he later drew its masthead of a knight leveling his lance at a fleeing devil. Mitchell took advantage of a revolutionary new printing process using zinc-coated plates, which improved the reproduction of his illustrations and artwork. This helped because Life faced stiff competition from the bestselling humor magazines The Judge and Puck, which were already established and successful. Edward Sandford Martin, a Harvard graduate and a founder of the Harvard Lampoon, was brought on as Life’s first literary editor.

The motto of the first issue of Life was 'While there’s Life, there’s hope.'"...
wikipedia.org
January 4, 1883
1883 - November 27 - Fire engines were called out in New York City and New Haven, CT, as a result of the afterglow of the sunset due to vivid red ash from the Krakatoa Volcano explosion in August.

The Weather Channel
1885 - March 3 – A subsidiary of the American Bell Telephone Company, American Telephone and Telegraph (AT&T), is incorporated in New York.
In 1885, on March 3rd, a pivotal event in the history of telecommunications occurred with the incorporation of American Telephone and Telegraph (AT&T) in New York. This moment marked the official establishment of a subsidiary of the American Bell Telephone Company, which had been rapidly expanding its telephone network across the United States. AT&T's creation solidified the company's role as a major player in the burgeoning telecommunications industry, setting the stage for its future growth and dominance.
March 3, 1885
1885 - The Statue of Liberty arrives in New York Harbor.
The formal reception of Bartholdi's great statue of "Liberty Enlightening the World" took place at yesterday at New York with impressive ceremonies. The city was decorated wand the harbor was gay with bunting. The statue, on board the French steamer Isere, was escorted up the bay by several French and American men-of-war and more than 100 steamers and yachts, the shores of New Jersey and Long Island echoing with the crash of guns, the shriek of whistles, and the shouts of thousands of spectators. The civic authorities welcomed the distinguished guests who brought the noble gift and dined with them at city-hall.

Chicago Daily Tribune
Chicago, Illinois
June 20, 1885
1888 - "The Great White Hurricane"
March 11-14, 1888
More than 120 winters have come and gone since the so-called “Great White Hurricane,” but this whopper of a storm still lives in infamy. After a stretch of rainy but unseasonably mild weather, temperatures plunged and vicious winds kicked up, blanketing the East Coast in snow and creating drifts up to 50 feet high. The storm immobilized New York, Boston and other major cities, blocking roads and wiping out telephone, telegraph and rail service for several days. When the skies finally cleared, fires and flooding inflicted millions of dollars of damage. The disaster resulted in more than 400 deaths, including 200 in New York City alone. In the decade that followed, partly in response to the 1888 storm and the massive gridlock it wrought, New York and Boston broke ground on the country’s first underground subway systems.

www.history.com/ news/ history-lists/ major-blizzards-in-u-s-history
1889 - July 8 – The Wall Street Journal is established.
"...The first issue of The Wall Street Journal appeared on July 8, 1889. It cost two cents per issue or five dollars for a one-year subscription. Dow was the editor and Jones managed the deskwork. The paper gave its readers a policy statement: "Its object is to give fully and fairly the daily news attending the fluctuations in prices of stocks, bonds, and some classes of commodities. It will aim steadily at being a paper of news and not a paper of opinions." The paper's motto was "The truth in its proper use." Its editors promised to put out a paper that could not be controlled by advertisers. The paper had a private wire to Boston and telegraph connections to Washington, Philadelphia, and Chicago. It also had correspondents in several cities, including London.

Dow often warned his reporters about exchanging slanted stories for stock tips or free stock. Crusading for honesty in financial reporting, Dow would publish the names of companies that hesitated to give information about... Read MORE...

1891 - May 5 – The Music Hall in New York (now known as Carnegie Hall) has its grand opening and first public performance, with maestro Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky as the guest conductor.
On May 5, 1891, the Music Hall in New York City, later known as Carnegie Hall, made its grand debut to the public. This iconic event marked the beginning of a storied history for the renowned concert hall. The opening night was a momentous occasion, featuring the legendary Russian composer and conductor, Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky, as the guest conductor. Tchaikovsky's presence added a touch of brilliance to the evening, solidifying the hall's reputation as a premier venue for classical music performances.
May 5, 1891
1892 - NO MORE BARGE OFFICE. Immigrants Will Hereafter Land at Ellis Island.
New York, Jan. 1. - Without any ceremony or formal opening the immigration officials of this city today settled down on Ellis Island in the harbor and the barge office is known to them no more. The steamship Nevada was the first to arrive at the new landing place. Her immigrants were put aboard the barge J. E. Moore, and amid the blowing of fog horns and whistles approached the pier.

Charles M. Hanley, private secretary to the late Secretary Windom, who had asked permission to be allowed to register the first immigrant, was at the registry deck when there came tripping up fifteen-year-old Annie Moore and her little brother. They had come from Cork to meet their mother, who lives here. Col. Weber greeted Annie and then presented her with a crisp new $10 bill.
The Saint Paul Globe
Saint Paul, Minnesota
January 2, 1892
1893 - May 5 – Panic of 1893: A crash on the New York Stock Exchange starts a depression.
The Panic of 1893 was a severe economic depression that occurred in the United States and had significant repercussions on the global economy. It was one of the most severe financial crises in American history and lasted for several years, causing widespread unemployment, business failures, and social unrest.

Causes:

Railroad Overbuilding: In the late 1800s, there was an excessive expansion of railroad construction, leading to overbuilding and overextension of credit to finance these projects.

Speculative Bubble: A speculative bubble formed around various industries, particularly in the railroad sector, leading to inflated stock prices and unsustainable investments.

Government Policies: The Sherman Silver Purchase Act of 1890, which required the U.S. government to buy silver and issue currency, further destabilized the economy. The act caused a run on the gold reserves as investors sought to convert their currency to gold.

Bank Failures: Several banks and financial... Read MORE...

1894 - September 4 – In New York City, 12,000 tailors strike against sweatshop working conditions.
In September 1894, 12,000 tailors in New York City staged a significant strike against the deplorable working conditions in sweatshops. These tailors, predominantly immigrants, were protesting long hours, low wages, and unsafe working environments. The strike was a part of a larger movement in the late 19th century, where workers across various industries were advocating for better treatment and fair wages.
September 4, 1894
1894 - Christmas Crazy Town
A lot of this sounds like TODAY...


A Wild Rush of Shoppers from Morning Till Night.

PILLAGED COUNTERS, TIRED CLERKS

The Native New-York Woman In Her Glory Yesterday - Streets and the Big Stores Crowded.


This holiday-making town went Christmas crazy yesterday. Everybody was either buying or selling something. Every man or woman you met - that is, every man and woman who looked happy - was carrying a bundle or two. The people without bundles of their own were mostly unfortunates who could be made happy by earning a nickel for carrying some one else's bundle or opening a carriage door.

For all shopping purposes it was Christmas Eve. The stores and streets were thronged with shoppers from morning till night. People who from force of necessity have left their Christmas buying until Monday will find pillaged counters and weary clerks.

The native New-York woman was in her glory yesterday. Her supremacy over her suburban sisters as a skillful pilot among multitudinous... Read MORE...

1895 - Manhattan Island
Manhattan Island, New York, is at the mouth of the Hudson River, which forms its western boundary. It is bounded on the E. by Harlem River and East River. It is about 14 miles long and 2 1/ 2 miles wide. The city of New York is mostly situated on this island. The county of New York comprises Manhattan and several lesser islands.
Lippincott's Gazetteer of the World: A Complete Pronouncing Gazetteer Or Geographical Dictionary of the World Containing Notices of Over One Hundred and Twenty-five Thousand Places ... Joseph Thomas January 1, 1895 J.B. Lippincott
1895 - BUILDING UNDER CONSTRUCTION COLLAPSES.
New York, March 2. - The accident occurred about 3:55 o'clock in the afternoon. Without the slightest sound that might have warned the 50 men that worked near it, the central wall to the four double tenement houses being erected at 151 to 157 Orchard Street, crumbled and fell. With the wall went portions of four floors, leaving a great rent 50 feet long and 30 feet wide in the center of the buildings. It was like a pit, at the bottom of which was a mass of tangled iron and broken wood, covered many men. From that heap, in an hour, had been taken out one man dead and 12 injured.

The Dead:
JOHN WILSON.
The Injured:
WILLIAM WILKINSON, back broken.
FRANK THORNTON, badly injured.
JOHN THORNTON, badly injured.
_____ GLORIA, both legs broken.
THOMAS WILSON, head injured.
GEORGE GAMBLE, both legs broken.
JOSEPH BARBARA, left leg broken.
FRANK BARBARA, back injured.
JOSEPH MESIRE, head injured.
PATRICK FLAHERTY, leg injured.
PATRICK MALLOY, back injured.
WILLIAM MALLOY, arms... Read MORE...

1895 - November 25 - Oscar Hammerstein opens the Olympia Theatre, the first theatre to be built in New York City's Times Square district.
In 1895, on November 25th, Oscar Hammerstein opened the Olympia Theatre, marking a significant moment in the development of New York City's Times Square district. The Olympia Theatre was the first of its kind in the area, signaling a shift in the city's entertainment landscape. Located in the heart of Times Square, the theater quickly became a cultural hub, attracting audiences with its innovative performances and lavish productions.

Hammerstein's decision to open the Olympia Theatre in Times Square was strategic, as the area was undergoing rapid transformation into a vibrant entertainment district. The theater's opening added to the allure of Times Square, solidifying its reputation as a premier destination for entertainment in New York City.
November 25, 1895

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1896 - Nine-day heatwave in NYC killed 420
In 1896, New York City experienced a devastating nine-day heatwave that left 420 people dead. The heatwave occurred during a period of exceptionally high temperatures, causing widespread discomfort and health issues for the city's residents. The heatwave's impact was exacerbated by the lack of modern amenities, such as air conditioning, which made it difficult for people to escape the sweltering heat.
www.worldatlas.com
1896 - May 26 – Charles Dow's Dow Jones Industrial Average first appears in the Wall Street Journal.
"Charles Henry Dow, born in Sterling, Connecticut on November 5, 1851, was the son of a farmer who died when his son was six years old....

Dow did not have much education or training, but he managed to find work at the age of 21 with the Springfield Daily Republican, in Massachusetts... Dow then moved on to Rhode Island, joining The Providence Star, where he worked for two years as a night editor. He also reported for the Providence Evening Press. In 1877, Dow joined the staff of the prominent Providence Journal...

In 1880, Dow left Providence for New York City, realizing that the ideal location for business and financial reporting was there. The 29-year-old found work at the Kiernan Wall Street Financial News Bureau, which delivered by messenger hand written financial news to banks and brokerages. Dow invited Edward Davis Jones to work with him. Jones and Dow had met when they worked together at the Providence Evening Press. Jones, a Brown University dropout, could skillfully... Read MORE...


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1898 - January 1 – New York City annexes land from surrounding counties, creating the City of Greater New York. The city is geographically divided into five boroughs: Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, The Bronx, and Staten Island.
The consolidation of New York City on January 1, 1898, marked a significant moment in the city's history, creating the modern framework of the city we know today. This event brought together several smaller cities and towns, including Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, The Bronx, and Staten Island, into one municipal entity known as the City of Greater New York. This consolidation was a response to the rapid growth and urbanization of the region, aiming to streamline governance, infrastructure development, and services across the newly formed metropolis.

Each borough retained its unique identity and characteristics, contributing to the rich cultural tapestry of the city. Manhattan, with its towering skyscrapers and bustling streets, became the heart of commerce and culture. Brooklyn, known for its distinct neighborhoods and iconic bridge, maintained its independent spirit. Queens, a diverse borough with residential neighborhoods and cultural enclaves, added to the city's vibrancy. The... Read MORE...

1898 - Open Air Courtship
With the coming of summer in New York the open air courtships begin. There is hardly the shadow of a friendly tree without a pair of lovers under it, and there is certainly not a bench in the park on which one or more have not found refuge. It is easy to laugh and it is more than easy for the unthinking to condemn. The well housed are able to uphold conventional rules and decry the breakers of them. But we live in a country where courtships are free, and young men and women can see and meet each other before the thrifty parent has disposed of them to desirable parties. And so long as this is so, and until we learn to build better homes for our tenement house population, young men and women will continue to do their courting in public. A hot kitchen with all the family in attendance, or a doorstep with all the tenement trying to get cool is not a great attraction to offset those of trees, fresh air, sweet smelling grass and a wide open sky. We who sit in judgement ought to consider... Read MORE...

1899 - CANDELEMAS DAY AT HAND.
Something About That Day and the Practices and Beliefs Popularly Associated with It.

The careless, everyday reader, who is too busy to trouble himself about musty historic matters and exact dates, may perhaps be surprised to learn that the day which stands out on his local calendar as "groundhog day" (being the day on which that interesting animal is supposed to emerge for a few moments from his customary hole to arbitrarily decide as to the immediate cessation or indefinite prolongation of Winter) has other claims upon public attention. But it is even so. It is a day that has been set apart in different countries for many centuries for the observance of various interesting ceremonies and quaint customs.

From the time of the Justinian, A. D. 542, February 2 has been celebrated as the feast of the Purification of the Virgin. The popular name of this feast is derived from the consecration on that day in the Roman Catholic Church of candles that are to be used during the year for... Read MORE...

1899 - July 19 – The Newsboys Strike takes place when the Newsies of New York go on strike (until August 2).
Only a Partial Concession.

The newsboys strike against the New York Journal and World has been settled. The newsies wanted the daily editions of the papers at the rate of a penny each, instead of paying $1.25 per one hundred copies. They also demanded that the Sunday edition be given to them for 4 1-2 cents a copy instead of 5 cents. The distributing agents of the papers assented to the latter demand, but insisted on receiving the old price for the daily editions. The newsboys decided to remain satisfied with the partial concession, and the strike was declared off.
Rochester Democrat and Chronicle
Rochester, New York
August 22, 1899


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1900 - March 24 - New York City Mayor Robert Anderson Van Wyck breaks ground for a new underground "Rapid Transit Railroad" that would link Manhattan and Brooklyn.
On March 24, 1900, New York City Mayor Robert Anderson Van Wyck initiated a significant development in the city's transportation infrastructure by breaking ground for a new underground "Rapid Transit Railroad." This ambitious project aimed to connect the bustling boroughs of Manhattan and Brooklyn, addressing the increasing demand for efficient transportation between the two populous areas. The groundbreaking ceremony marked the beginning of a transformative endeavor that would shape the future of public transportation in the city.
historyorb.com
March 24, 1900

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1901 - May 17 – The U.S. stock market crashes.
"Panic of 1901." This financial turmoil was primarily triggered by the fierce competition and subsequent battle for control over the Northern Pacific Railway between two major financial titans, E.H. Harriman and James J. Hill. Their aggressive stock-buying tactics led to a dramatic surge in Northern Pacific's stock price, causing widespread panic among investors. The sudden and unexpected spike in stock prices led to margin calls and forced liquidations, creating a domino effect that plunged the stock market into chaos.

As the market plummeted, many investors faced financial ruin, and the broader economy was shaken. The panic underscored the volatility of the stock market and the impact of speculative activities on financial stability. It also highlighted the need for better regulation and oversight of the financial markets, setting the stage for future reforms. The 1901 stock market crash served as a stark reminder of the inherent risks in unregulated financial markets and the... Read MORE...

1902 - January 8 – A train collision in the New York Central Railroad's Park Avenue Tunnel kills 17, injures 38, and leads to increased demand for electric trains and led to the banning of Steam locomotives in the state.

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January 8, 1902
1902 - June 15 – The New York Central railroad inaugurates the 20th Century Limited passenger train between Chicago and New York City.
The 20th Century Limited was a luxurious passenger train that operated in the United States during the 20th century. It was one of the most famous and prestigious trains of its time, offering a high level of luxury and comfort to its passengers. The train service was operated jointly by the New York Central Railroad and the Pennsylvania Railroad, with the primary route running between New York City and Chicago.

The 20th Century Limited made its first run on June 15, 1902. It was introduced as a response to the competition of other luxury trains like the Pennsylvania Railroad's Broadway Limited and the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad's Royal Blue Line.

The train's main route connected Grand Central Terminal in New York City and LaSalle Street Station in Chicago. The journey covered approximately 960 miles and took around 16 hours.

The 20th Century Limited was renowned for its opulent and elegant accommodations. It featured plush sleeping cars, dining cars with gourmet meals,... Read MORE...

1903 - NYC - Crayons were invented by Edwin Binney and Harold Smith, who owned a paint company in New York City, NY, USA. Binney and Smith invented the modern-day crayon by combining paraffin wax with pigments (colorants).
These inexpensive art supplies were an instant success since they were first marketed as Crayola crayons in 1903.
www.enchantedlearning.com/ inventors/ us.shtml

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1903 - March 2 – In New York City, the Martha Washington Hotel, the first hotel exclusively for women, opens.
The hotel was originally built in 1903 as a residence for women and was named after Martha Washington, the wife of the first U.S. President, George Washington.

Over the years, the Martha Washington Hotel underwent several transformations and renovations, eventually becoming a hotel that catered to both men and women. It was known for its elegant and luxurious accommodations, attracting prominent guests and visitors. The hotel's historic significance and architectural charm made it a notable landmark in the city.
March 2, 1903
1903 - October 9 - New York City was deluged with 11.17 inches of rain in 24 hours to establish a state record.

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October 9, 1903
1903 - December 19 - Williamsburg suspension bridge opens between Brooklyn & Manhattan
On December 19, 1903, the Williamsburg Bridge opened to the public, connecting the neighborhoods of Williamsburg in Brooklyn and the Lower East Side of Manhattan. The bridge was a monumental engineering achievement of its time, boasting the longest main span of any suspension bridge in the world at the time of its completion. Designed by Leffert L. Buck and Henry Hornbostel, the bridge was constructed to alleviate traffic congestion on the nearby Brooklyn Bridge and to accommodate the growing populations of Brooklyn and Manhattan.
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1904 - June 15 – A fire aboard the steamboat General Slocum in New York City's East River kills 1,021.
The General Slocum was a steamship that tragically caught fire and sank in New York City's East River on June 15, 1904. The incident remains one of the deadliest maritime disasters in American history. The ship was named after Civil War General Henry Warner Slocum and had been a popular vessel for excursions and outings for members of the local German-American community.

On the day of the disaster, the ship was carrying around 1,300 passengers, mostly women and children, on a summer excursion to a picnic site on Long Island. The ship was decorated for the occasion and set out on its journey with high spirits among the passengers.

However, disaster struck when a fire broke out in the ship's forward compartment. The crew's response to the fire was disorganized and inadequate. The lifeboats were in poor condition, and the crew was poorly trained in handling emergencies. The fire spread quickly, engulfing the entire vessel.

As the panic ensued, many passengers, mostly women and... Read MORE...

1904 - October 27 – The first underground line of the New York City Subway opens.
On October 27, 1904, the first underground line of the New York City Subway system opened, marking a significant milestone in the city's transportation history. The line, known as the Interborough Rapid Transit (IRT), ran from City Hall in lower Manhattan to 145th Street and Broadway in Harlem, covering a distance of about 9 miles. The subway line was a response to the city's rapidly growing population and increasing congestion on the streets above.

The opening of the subway line was a major event, drawing huge crowds eager to experience this new mode of transportation. The subway cars were hailed as modern marvels, featuring electric lights, comfortable seating, and efficient travel times.
October 27, 1904
1904 - December 31 – In New York City, the first New Year's Eve celebration is held in Times Square.
"In 1904, the New York Times moved from the City Hall are to the triangular piece of land at the intersection of 7th Avenue, Broadway, and 42nd Street. People thought they were crazy for moving so far uptown, but this was the same year the first subway line opened, passing through what was then called Longacre Square. Not only did their new Times Tower have a printing press in the basement (they loaded the daily papers right onto the train and got the news out faster than other papers), but it was the second-tallest building in the city at the time. To honor this accolade, the company wanted to take over the city’s former New Year’s Eve celebration at Trinity Church, and since the church elders hated people getting drunk on their property, they gladly obliged. So to ring in 1905, the Times hosted an all-day bash of 200,000 people that culminated in a midnight fireworks display, and thus the first New Year’s Eve in Times Square was born. But it wasn’t until a few years later that the... Read MORE...

1905 - January 2 - GREATEST OF SKYSCRAPERS - OPENING OF THE NEW YORK TIMES BUILDING
New York, Jan. 2 - The New York Times was published last night from its new building in Times square, a structure which has been referred to by experts as one of the most notable architectural triumphs of the world. In recognition of this contribution to the architectural beauty of New York, the City Government some time ago named the district from Forty-Second street north for seven blocks along Broadway and Seventh avenue Times square and the subway station in the basement of the building bears the same title.

Occupancy of the new building by the New York Times began at midnight Saturday and the occasion was celebrated by an elaborate display of fireworks from the observatory of the building, more than 400 feet above Broadway. In a special edition the Times says that the building is the city's tallest structure, from bas to top being thirty-one stories, with an extreme height of 476 feet; that a new record in steel tonnage has been made in its construction, as it contains a... Read MORE...

1905 - "Likely to excel"
The New York park commissioner recently made a requisition on the civil service commission for candidates from which to select a city apiarist. A woman heads the list sent down, with a rating of 97. Being a woman she will probably not get the place, but the incident calls fresh attention to a new line of business in which women are likely to excel.
Boston Evening Transcript
Boston, Massachusetts
March 2, 1905
1906
Manhattan, a borough of the city of New York. It comprises Manhattan, Governor's, Bedloe's, Ellis, Oyster, Blackwell's, Randall's, and Ward's islands, — that is, the SW. part of New York co. It contains more than half of the population of the municipality of New York, and constitutes (with the borough of Bronx) what in common par lance is designated New York city in the narrower sense, the boroughs of Brooklyn, Queens, and Richmond making np the rest of the municipality of Now York.
Lippincott's New Gazetteer: A Complete Pronouncing Gazetteer Or Geographical Dictionary of the World, Containing the Most Recent and Authentic Information Respecting the Countries, Cities, Towns ... in Every Portion of the Globe Publisher J.B. Lippincott Company, 1906
1909 - FIRE WIPES OUT A LANDMARK.
Parkinson's in Whitehall Street Destroyed and Several Persons Burned.

An aged scrubwoman was seriously burned and three men, one a fireman, were slightly injured yesterday in a fire which destroyed the three-story brick building at 40-42 Whitehall Street, just off Bowling Green. The building was one of the oldest left in lower Manhattan.

For three generations the basement had been occupied by Parkinson's wine room, one of the landmarks of the city, and tradition has it that Robert Fulton used to live to see the passing of the famous old place. He died some weeks ago, but his son, the present proprietor, would have carried the tavern on in the same old way until he himself became "Old Man Parkinson" had the fire not stepped in and eaten up the old walls.

The fire started in a room on the second floor. It burned briskly for two hours. Three persons were hurt, Mrs. Reilly, one of the employes, may die of her injuries.
The New York Times
New York, New York
January 20, 1909
1909 - March 30 - Queensboro Bridge opens, linking Manhattan & Queens
On March 30, 1909, the Queensboro Bridge, also known as the 59th Street Bridge, opened to the public, connecting the boroughs of Manhattan and Queens in New York City. This iconic bridge, spanning the East River, was a significant engineering feat of its time. It was designed by Gustav Lindenthal and Leffert L. Buck, with the construction supervised by Henry Hornbostel.

The opening of the Queensboro Bridge had a profound impact on the transportation and development of both Manhattan and Queens. Prior to its construction, the only way to travel between these two boroughs was by ferry, which was often unreliable and limited in capacity. The bridge not only provided a more efficient means of transportation but also spurred economic growth and development in Queens, making it more accessible to Manhattan residents and businesses.
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1910 - Saved by a Strong Clothesline
Five-Story Fall Didn’t Feaze [sic] Him
Seven-Year-Old, Emulating Feats of Firemen, Drops Through Tenement Clothes Lines. Four Broke Under Him
Fifth Held and a Neighbor Rescues Him-”I Ain’t Hurt; I Could Do It Again,” His Comment.

The conventional hero of melodrama whose life hung by a single thread was only a humdrum hero compared to 7-year-old Isidore Bloom of 25 Market Street, whose life hung successfully from five clotheslines in a roof-to-courtyard fall yesterday afternoon. Four of the five clotheslines which marked the periods in his fall weren’t as good as they should have been, and broke under him. If it hadn’t been for the fifth-but there by hung the tale-and Izzy.

Isidore thought he’d play fireman late yesterday afternoon, so he stepped out upon the fire escape from a window in his home on the fifth floor of the building, and started up a small ladder to the roof, to perform heroic rescued. While rescuing a non-existent damsel from a place of peril in the cornice... Read MORE...

1911 - March 25 – A fire at the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory in New York City kills 146.
The Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire was a tragic industrial disaster that occurred on March 25, 1911, in New York City, USA. It remains one of the deadliest workplace incidents in American history and had a profound impact on labor rights and workplace safety regulations.

The Triangle Shirtwaist Factory was a garment factory located on the top three floors of the Asch Building, near Washington Square Park in Manhattan. It mainly produced shirtwaists, a popular type of women's blouse at the time. The factory employed mostly young immigrant women, many of whom were Jewish or Italian immigrants.

The disaster struck towards the end of the workday when a fire broke out on the eighth floor of the building. The exact cause of the fire remains unknown, but it's speculated that a discarded cigarette or a spark from a faulty sewing machine might have ignited the flammable materials in the factory.

Unfortunately, the factory's owners, Max Blanck and Isaac Harris, had a notorious... Read MORE...


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1913 - February 1 – New York City's Grand Central Terminal, having been rebuilt, reopens as the world's largest railroad station.
In 1913, on February 1st, New York City's Grand Central Terminal, after undergoing a massive reconstruction effort, reopened its doors to the public, solidifying its position as the world's largest and most magnificent railroad station. The new terminal was a marvel of engineering and design, featuring a grand Beaux-Arts facade and a vast interior space adorned with elegant architectural details. The reopening was a significant event not only for New York City but also for the entire country, as it symbolized the progress and modernization of American transportation infrastructure.

The reconstruction of Grand Central Terminal was a monumental undertaking that lasted nearly a decade and involved the demolition of the original station and the construction of a new, more spacious terminal. The new terminal boasted numerous improvements, including expanded platforms, a new concourse, and state-of-the-art amenities for passengers. The reopening ceremony was a grand affair, attended by... Read MORE...

1913 - April 24 – The Woolworth Building opens in New York City. Designed by Cass Gilbert, it is the tallest building in the world at this date and for more than a decade after.
In 1913, the Woolworth Building opened its doors in New York City, marking a significant moment in architectural history. Designed by Cass Gilbert, this iconic skyscraper soared to great heights, becoming the tallest building in the world at the time of its completion. Standing at an impressive 792 feet, the Woolworth Building stood as a symbol of modernity and progress, reflecting the booming economy and the ambitious spirit of the early 20th century.

The building's design was a marvel of its time, featuring a neo-Gothic style that was both elegant and imposing. Its intricate façade was adorned with ornamental details, including gargoyles and intricate carvings, showcasing the craftsmanship of the era. The interior was equally impressive, with a grand lobby that exuded opulence and sophistication. The Woolworth Building quickly became a landmark in the New York City skyline, a testament to human ingenuity and the pursuit of architectural excellence.
April 24, 1913

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1914 - August 1 - New York Stock Exchange closed due to war in Europe, where nearly all stock exchanges are already closed.
In August 1914, the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) closed its doors in response to the outbreak of World War I in Europe. This closure was part of a global trend, as nearly all major stock exchanges around the world shut down amid the escalating conflict. The decision to close the NYSE was a precautionary measure, intended to prevent panic selling and maintain stability in the financial markets during a period of great uncertainty and geopolitical upheaval.

The closure of the NYSE reflected the interconnected nature of the global economy, as news of the war's outbreak sent shockwaves through financial markets worldwide. The closure lasted for several months, during which time investors and traders awaited developments in the war and its potential impact on the global economy.
August 1, 1914


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1914 - December 12 – The New York Stock Exchange re-opens, having been closed since August 1 except for bond trading.
The closure of the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) in 1914, from August 1 to December 12, was a response to the outbreak of World War I in Europe. This closure was unprecedented and reflected the uncertainty and fear gripping financial markets at the time. The decision to close the NYSE was made to prevent panic selling and stabilize the financial system.

When the NYSE re-opened on December 12, it marked a significant moment in the history of the exchange and the financial world. The resumption of trading symbolized a return to normalcy and a vote of confidence in the resilience of the American economy.
December 12, 1914
1920 - January 9 – Thousands of onlookers watch as "The Human Fly" George Polley climbs the Woolworth Building in New York City. He reaches the 30th floor before being arrested.
On January 9, 1920, a daring feat captured the attention of thousands in New York City as "The Human Fly," George Polley, embarked on a perilous climb up the iconic Woolworth Building. With no safety harness or equipment, Polley relied solely on his strength and skill to ascend the 792-foot tall skyscraper. As he made his way up the sheer walls, crowds gathered below, mesmerized by his audacity and athleticism.

Despite the building's smooth surface, Polley managed to climb up to the 30th floor, captivating onlookers with each precarious step. However, his ascent was abruptly halted when authorities intervened and arrested him for his unauthorized climb.
January 9, 1920

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1924 - November 27 – In New York City the first Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade is held
On November 27, 1924, the first Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade took place in New York City. The parade was originally called the "Macy's Christmas Parade" to kick off the holiday shopping season, but it quickly became synonymous with Thanksgiving. The parade was organized by Macy's employees and featured animals from the Central Park Zoo, including elephants, camels, and monkeys, as well as floats, professional bands, and live animals borrowed from the zoo. The parade culminated in Santa Claus being welcomed to Herald Square, marking the official start of the Christmas season.

This inaugural parade was a huge success, drawing an estimated 250,000 spectators. It set the stage for the tradition that continues to this day, with millions of people lining the streets of New York City and millions more watching on television. Over the years, the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade has become a beloved American tradition, featuring iconic giant balloons, floats, performances by marching bands... Read MORE...


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1926 - February 1 – Land on Broadway and Wall Street in New York City is sold at a record $7 per sq inch.
In 1926, on February 1st, a remarkable event took place in New York City, specifically on the bustling streets of Broadway and Wall Street. During this time, an unprecedented transaction occurred, with land in this prime area being sold at an astonishing rate of $7 per square inch. This sale set a new record for the value of real estate in the city, highlighting the intense demand and competition for space in this iconic financial district.
February 1, 1926
1928 - LOST BELLBOY FOUND
Youngster Wind Gold Medal for Refusing to Sell Liquor

NEW YORK. March 25 - Satisfaction of the existence of a non-bootlegging bellboy was the feature of a medal bestowing ceremony at the Hotel Prince George today.

The young dry hero was Russell Woods. He stood at attention while A. M. Gutterson, manager of the hotel, pinned a gold medal on his breast.

Documentary evidence that Woods earned his medal exists in the form of a letter from a thirsty guest who wrote that he admired the boy's principle, though angry with him because he would not get him a pint.
genealogybank.com
Oregonian
Oregon
March 26, 1928
1929 - October 24–29 – Wall Street Crash of 1929: Three multi-digit percentage drops wipe out more than $30 billion from the New York Stock Exchange (10 times greater than the annual budget of the federal government).
In the 1920s, the stock market was rapidly growing. Many investors hoped to quickly get rich.

The Great Crash affected everyone, even those who had not bought stocks. People ran to their banks to get their savings, fearing the banks would run out of money.

Many banks had also invested in the stock market and lost money. W.W. Tarpley, a bank officer in Georgia, remembered the mob of people who came to his bank, fearful of losing everything, " . . . people were losing their homes and some their savings of a lifetime. The saddest part of it was to see widows who probably had been left a little insurance and had put it all in the bank."

The crash triggered the Great Depression. People all over the country not only lost their money, but also they lost their jobs. Businesses closed because they could not afford to pay their workers. Stock prices continued to fall, and on July 8, 1932, the market hit its lowest point during the Depression. Many lives were drastically changed, but... Read MORE...

1930 - February 26 - 1st red & green traffic lights installed (Manhattan NYC)
On February 26, 1930, a significant milestone in traffic management occurred with the installation of the first red and green traffic lights in Manhattan, New York City. This event marked a crucial development in urban infrastructure, aiming to regulate and organize the flow of vehicles and pedestrians at busy intersections.

The installation of these traffic lights in Manhattan reflected a growing need for improved safety and efficiency on city streets, particularly as automobile traffic increased.


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February 26, 1930
1931 - May 1 - The Empire State Building Opens
President Herbert Hoover pressed a button in Washington, D.C., and on came the lights in the world's tallest skyscraper. Before that, the Chrysler Building briefly held the record at 1046 feet.

Standing proud on the corner of Fifth Avenue and 34th Street in New York City, the Empire State Building has 102 stories and reaches a height of 1,454 feet. Motivated by a competition between the leaders of Chrysler and General Motors, John Jacob Raskob of General Motors and Alfred E. Smith, a former governor of New York, formed a corporation to finance the building. Construction started in 1930. The steel framework of the Empire State Building rose to the sky at an incredible rate of 4 and 1/ 2 stories per week. The building's construction was completed in a phenomenal one year and forty-five days! The mast on top was originally a mooring for dirigibles which, in the 1930s, were considered to be the future of air travel.
www.americaslibrary.gov
May 1, 1931

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1931 - October 24 – The George Washington Bridge across the Hudson River in the United States is dedicated; it opens to traffic the following day. At 3,500 feet (1,100 m), it nearly doubles the previous record for the longest main span in the world.
The George Washington Bridge, a monumental engineering feat, was dedicated on October 24, 1931, and opened to traffic the next day, spanning the Hudson River between New York City and New Jersey. With a main span of 3,500 feet (1,100 meters), it nearly doubled the previous record for the longest main span in the world, a testament to American engineering prowess of the time. The bridge was named after George Washington, the first President of the United States, and its construction was a significant milestone in connecting the bustling urban areas of New York and New Jersey.

The completion of the George Washington Bridge was not only a triumph in engineering but also a boon for transportation and commerce in the region. It provided a vital link between the two states, easing traffic congestion and facilitating the movement of goods and people. The bridge quickly became an iconic symbol of New York City, admired for its majestic arches and towering presence over the Hudson River,... Read MORE...

1932 - November 16 – New York City's Palace Theatre fully converts to a cinema, which is considered the final death knell of vaudeville as a popular entertainment in the United States.
In 1932, the Palace Theatre in New York City underwent a significant transformation that marked the end of an era in American entertainment. On November 16, the iconic theater, once a bastion of vaudeville, fully converted to a cinema, signaling the final decline of vaudeville as a popular form of entertainment in the United States. Vaudeville, a theatrical genre characterized by a variety of acts including comedy, music, dance, and magic, had been a dominant form of entertainment in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, attracting audiences with its diverse and lively performances.

The conversion of the Palace Theatre to a cinema symbolized the shifting tastes of American audiences and the impact of technological advancements on the entertainment industry. The rise of cinema, with its ability to offer a different kind of spectacle and storytelling, had been gradually eroding the popularity of vaudeville.
November 16, 1932
1932 - December 27 - Radio City Music Hall opens in New York City.
On December 27, 1932, Radio City Music Hall, one of the most iconic entertainment venues in the world, opened its doors in New York City. Located in Rockefeller Center, the Art Deco masterpiece was designed to be a beacon of sophistication and modernity in the heart of Manhattan. The hall was intended to be a showcase for the latest in entertainment technology and design, featuring state-of-the-art sound systems, lavish decor, and a seating capacity of over 6,000, making it one of the largest indoor theaters in the world at the time.

The opening night at Radio City Music Hall was a grand affair, attended by numerous celebrities and dignitaries. The inaugural show, titled "A Gala Premiere," featured a variety of performances, including a lavish stage show, a screening of the film "The Bitter Tea of General Yen," and appearances by the Rockettes, the legendary precision dance troupe.
December 27, 1932
1933 - March 15 - The Dow Jones Industrial Average rises from 53.84 to 62.10. The day's gain of 15.34%, achieved during the depths of the Great Depression, remains to date as the largest 1-day percentage gain for the index.

On March 15, 1933, amidst the Great Depression, the Dow Jones Industrial Average experienced a historic surge, rising from 53.84 to 62.10. This remarkable increase of 15.34% marked the largest one-day percentage gain in the index's history. This event occurred during a period of severe economic turmoil when the stock market had been deeply affected by the financial crisis. The sudden surge in the Dow Jones reflected a moment of optimism and perhaps relief among investors, hinting at a potential turning point in the economic downturn.

This significant rise in the Dow Jones Industrial Average on March 15, 1933, symbolized a brief but notable moment of respite during the Great Depression.
March 15, 1933
1935 - March 19 – Harlem Riot of 1935: A race riot breaks out in Harlem (New York City) after a rumor circulates that a teenage Puerto Rican shoplifter in the S. H. Kress & Co. department store has been brutally beaten.
The Harlem Riot of 1935 erupted on March 19th in New York City, fueled by tensions surrounding the alleged brutal beating of a teenage Puerto Rican shoplifter at the S. H. Kress & Co. department store. The rumor of the incident quickly spread through the neighborhood, igniting long-standing grievances among Harlem's African American and Puerto Rican communities.

The riot marked a significant moment in the history of race relations in the United States, highlighting the economic and social disparities faced by minority communities. The unrest lasted for several hours, resulting in clashes between protesters and police, as well as widespread looting and property damage.
March 19, 1935
1936 - July 11 - Triborough Bridge linking Manhattan, Bronx & Queens opens
On July 11, 1936, the Triborough Bridge, a significant infrastructure project linking the boroughs of Manhattan, Bronx, and Queens in New York City, opened to the public. The bridge, a complex of three bridges and an elevated highway, was a major engineering feat of its time, designed to alleviate traffic congestion and facilitate transportation between the boroughs. Its construction began in 1929 under the direction of Robert Moses, a prominent urban planner, and was completed after seven years of construction, providing much-needed employment during the Great Depression.

The Triborough Bridge, now known as the Robert F. Kennedy Bridge, quickly became a vital transportation link, improving access to and from Manhattan and facilitating economic growth in the surrounding areas.
historyorb.com
July 11, 1936
1938 - "Long Island Express" - HURRICANE, FLOODS SWEEP NEW ENGLAND. 296 WERE KILLED IN STORM ALONG ATLANTIC COAST; PROPERTY DAMAGE ENORMOUS.
...New York City Drenched.
New York city's 7,000,000 inhabitants, who barely escaped the worst of the storm, were drenched with a 4 1/ 2 inch rain. The wind blew 75 miles an hour. Lights failed for two hours last night in two sections of the city. Subway service was halted for a time and thousands were stranded. Two of the four Manhattan-Hudson tubes were closed by water. Commuters were unable to reach Long Island.

The Queen Mary was held at her dock all night with 868 passengers. The Ile de France arrived shortly before the worst of the wind, listing as the gale lashed its port side. The Staten island ferryboat Knickerbocker, loaded with 200 passengers, tipped at its dock on the battery and almost overturned...

Dunkirk Evening Observer
New York
September 22, 1938


The "Long Island Express" was first detected over the tropical Atlantic on September 13, although it may have formed a few days earlier. Moving generally west-northwestward, it passed to the north of Puerto... Read MORE...

1939 - April 30 - World's Fair opens in New York City

On April 30, 1939, the World's Fair opened in New York City, marking a significant event in the midst of pre-World War II tensions. Held at Flushing Meadows-Corona Park in Queens, the fair was themed "The World of Tomorrow," showcasing futuristic technologies, cultural exhibits, and optimistic visions of the future.

The fair's opening ceremony was attended by President Franklin D. Roosevelt, who emphasized the fair's theme as a beacon of hope during uncertain times. Among the fair's most notable exhibits was the General Motors "Futurama" exhibit, which presented a model of the world in 1960, featuring highways, suburbs, and streamlined cities. The fair also introduced Americans to innovations like the television, which was demonstrated for the first time to a mass audience.
April 30, 1939
1940 - November 18 - George Matesky, New York City's Mad Bomber places his first bomb at a Manhattan office building used by Consolidated Edison.
On November 18, 1940, George Matesky, also known as New York City's Mad Bomber, planted his first bomb at a Manhattan office building occupied by Consolidated Edison. This event marked the beginning of a series of bombings that would terrorize New York City for years. Matesky, a disgruntled former employee of Con Edison, held a grudge against the company and sought revenge through his bombings.

The bomb was discovered before it could detonate, thanks to the quick action of the building's janitor, who noticed the suspicious package and alerted the authorities. Although this first attempt failed, it set off a string of bombings over the next 16 years, targeting various locations associated with Con Edison and leaving the city in fear of the elusive Mad Bomber. Matesky's bombings were motivated by his grievances against Con Edison and his desire for recognition, leading to one of the longest manhunts in New York City's history.
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1943 - March 31 – Rodgers and Hammerstein's Oklahoma! opens on Broadway
In 1943, Rodgers and Hammerstein's groundbreaking musical "Oklahoma!" premiered on Broadway, forever changing the landscape of American musical theater. Set against the backdrop of the American West, the musical tells the story of romance, rivalry, and the pioneering spirit of the Oklahoma Territory in the early 1900s. With music by Richard Rodgers and book and lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II, "Oklahoma!" introduced a new level of integration between story, music, and dance, setting the standard for future musicals.

The show was a critical and commercial success, running for an unprecedented 2,212 performances and winning a special Pulitzer Prize in 1944. "Oklahoma!" also marked the beginning of a fruitful partnership between Rodgers and Hammerstein, who would go on to create other iconic musicals such as "Carousel," "South Pacific," and "The Sound of Music."
March 31, 1943

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1944 - HURRICANE HITS NEW YORK AND NEW ENGLAND COASTS. HIGH WINDS LASH JERSEY, LONG ISLAND.
...In New York City, sidewalks were virtually deserted. Wind whipping sheets of rain around the corners of tall buildings smashed plate glass windows.

Four persons were cut by flying glass when the window of a Broadway self-service restaurant was blown in.

The Grand Central Terminal in Manhattan said all its trains had stopped except those on the Hudson division, connecting New York and Albany...
The Troy Record
Troy, New York
September 15, 1944
July 28, 1945: A U.S. bomber flying through thick fog at about 200 mph crashed into the 79th floor of New York's Empire State Building, killing 14 people
On July 28, 1945, tragedy struck New York City when a United States Army Air Forces B-25 Mitchell bomber crashed into the Empire State Building. The bomber, en route to Newark Airport from Massachusetts, encountered thick fog, severely limiting visibility. At around 9:40 a.m., the aircraft, flying at about 200 mph, struck the north side of the Empire State Building between the 78th and 80th floors, hitting with such force that parts of the plane went through the building and landed on the roof of a nearby building.

The impact caused a massive fire, spreading flames and smoke through the building and down to the 75th floor. Despite the efforts of emergency services, including firefighters, police, and medical personnel, 14 people lost their lives, including 11 office workers and the three crew members aboard the plane.
The Old Farmer's Almanac www.almanac.com
July 28, 1945
1945 - October 29 - At Gimbels Department Store in New York City, the first ballpoint pens go on sale at $12.50 each.
On October 29, 1945, a significant moment in the history of writing instruments occurred at Gimbels Department Store in New York City. This was the day when the first ballpoint pens were introduced for sale to the public. Priced at $12.50 each, these pens represented a leap forward in writing technology, offering a more convenient and reliable alternative to traditional fountain pens and pencils.
October 29, 1945

Read more about Adam GIMBEL photo of ancestor
1946 - New York City is chosen as the site of the United Nations
In 1946, following the end of World War II, the world was seeking to establish an organization that could prevent future conflicts and promote international cooperation. New York City, known for its diversity and status as a global hub, was chosen as the site for the headquarters of the United Nations. This decision was significant as it symbolized the hope for a new era of peace and collaboration among nations.

The selection of New York City as the host city for the United Nations was not without controversy. Many cities around the world vied for the honor, each offering its own unique advantages. However, New York's central location, infrastructure, and status as a major world city ultimately won out. The decision was made official on June 14, 1946, and since then, the United Nations headquarters in New York City has served as a vital center for international diplomacy and cooperation.
1946 - December 20 - Frank Capra's It's a Wonderful Life, featuring James Stewart, Donna Reed, Lionel Barrymore, Henry Travers, and Thomas Mitchell, is released in New York.
On December 20, 1946, Frank Capra's iconic film It's a Wonderful Life premiered in New York City. Starring James Stewart as George Bailey, Donna Reed as Mary Hatch, Lionel Barrymore as the villainous Mr. Potter, Henry Travers as the angel Clarence, and Thomas Mitchell as Uncle Billy, the film tells the story of a man who, facing financial ruin and personal despair, is shown by an angel what life would have been like if he had never existed.

Despite receiving mixed reviews upon its initial release, It's a Wonderful Life has since become a beloved classic, cherished for its heartwarming message and timeless themes of hope, redemption, and the impact of a single life on others.
December 20, 1946

Read more about Frank Russell (Francesco Rosario) CAPRA photo of ancestor
1947 - December 26-27 - New York City received a record 26.4 inches of snow in 24 hours, with as much as 32 inches reported in the suburbs.
The heavy snow brought traffic to a standstill, and snow removal cost eight million dollars. Thirty thousand persons were called upon to remove the 100 million tons of snow. The storm claimed 27 lives.
WeatherForYou.com
December 27, 1947
1951 - January 10 - UN headquarters opens in Manhattan NY
On January 10, 1951, a significant milestone in international diplomacy and cooperation was reached with the opening of the United Nations headquarters in Manhattan, New York City. The event marked the culmination of years of planning and construction following the end of World War II, during which the need for a global forum to promote peace and address international issues became increasingly apparent.

Located along the East River in New York City, the UN headquarters symbolized a new era of multilateralism and collaboration among nations. Its opening was attended by dignitaries and representatives from member states around the world, signaling a commitment to the ideals of the United Nations Charter. The headquarters became a hub for diplomatic negotiations, peacekeeping efforts, and discussions on a wide range of global challenges, solidifying its place as a central institution in the international community.
historyorb.com
1952 - February 5 - The first “Don’t Walk” sign was installed in New York City. The installation of this sign was inspired by the growing number of deaths resulting from pedestrian accidents.

http://thisdayintechhistory.com
February 5, 1952
1953 - November - Residents of New York City suffered through ten days of smog resulting in 200 deaths.
In November 1953, New York City experienced a severe environmental crisis as a thick blanket of smog enveloped the city for ten days, leading to significant health hazards and tragic consequences. The smog, a mixture of smoke and fog, was exacerbated by the city's industrial activities, vehicle emissions, and weather conditions that trapped pollutants close to the ground.

The smog had a devastating impact on the city's residents, with around 200 deaths attributed to the event, primarily due to respiratory illnesses and other related health complications. The incident sparked widespread concern and prompted authorities to take action to address air pollution in the city, leading to the implementation of stricter regulations on industrial emissions and vehicular pollution.
The Weather Channel
1964 - April 22 - World's Fair opens in New York City
The 1964 New York World's Fair was a major international exhibition that took place in Flushing Meadows–Corona Park in Queens, New York City. The fair was held to commemorate the 300th anniversary of New Amsterdam (New York City) and was officially opened to the public on April 22, 1964. The fair's theme was "Peace Through Understanding," and it aimed to showcase American culture, industry, and technology, as well as promote international cooperation and understanding.

The fair featured numerous pavilions from countries around the world, as well as exhibitions from various American states and industries. Some of the most iconic attractions included the Unisphere, a 12-story high globe sculpture symbolizing global interdependence; the Ford Motor Company's "Ford's Magic Skyway" ride, which featured automated cars traveling through scenes of prehistoric times and the future; and the General Electric pavilion's "Progressland," which showcased the latest advancements in technology. The... Read MORE...

1972 - Hurricane Agnes
June 22
1:00 p.m. EDT (18:00 UTC) – Tropical Storm Agnes makes landfall near New York City, New York with winds of 65 mph (105 km/ h).
wikipedia.org
1973 - April 4 – The World Trade Center officially opens in New York City with a ribbon cutting ceremony.
On April 4, 1973, the World Trade Center in New York City officially opened its doors with a grand ribbon-cutting ceremony. This iconic complex, comprised of the North Tower and the South Tower, stood as a symbol of economic power and modern architecture. Designed by architect Minoru Yamasaki, the twin towers soared above the Manhattan skyline, becoming the tallest buildings in the world at the time of their completion.

The opening ceremony was a momentous occasion, attended by dignitaries and officials, marking the beginning of a new chapter in New York City's history. The World Trade Center quickly became a hub for international business, housing offices, shops, and restaurants.
April 4, 1973
1977 - July 13 - Lightning struck a key electrical transmission line in Westchester County of southeastern New York State plunging New York City into darkness.

WeatherForYou.com
July 13, 1977
1993 - World Trade Center bombing
On February 26, 1993, a group of terrorists detonated a bomb in a parking garage beneath the North Tower of the World Trade Center in New York City. The explosion ripped through several levels of the underground garage, killing six people and injuring over a thousand others. The bomb, which was intended to topple the North Tower into the South Tower and cause massive casualties, failed to achieve its primary objective but still resulted in significant damage to the building and surrounding structures.

The bombing was orchestrated by a group of Islamic extremists, including Ramzi Yousef, who fled the United States shortly after the attack. Yousef was later captured and brought to trial, along with several other individuals involved in the plot.
2023 - Whether you're interested in art, culture, food, or simply exploring the city, Manhattan has something for everyone. Here's a list of places to go and things to do in Manhattan:
Central Park: This iconic urban park offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. You can take a leisurely stroll, have a picnic, rent a rowboat, or visit famous landmarks like Bethesda Terrace and the Central Park Zoo.

Times Square: Known as "The Crossroads of the World," Times Square is famous for its bright lights, Broadway theaters, and bustling atmosphere. It's a must-visit, especially at night.

Broadway Shows: Catching a Broadway show is a quintessential Manhattan experience. Check out the latest musicals and plays in the Theater District. Popular shows often include "Hamilton," "The Lion King," and "Wicked."

Museums: Manhattan is home to world-class museums. The Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), the American Museum of Natural History, and the Whitney Museum of American Art are just a few of the options.

Empire State Building: Head to the top of this iconic skyscraper for panoramic views of the city. The Empire State... Read MORE...

Discover MY Roots: Manhattan Ancestry

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Genealogy Resources for Manhattan

New York City Business Directory 1859. Boston MA: Adams, Sampson & Co., 1859. Ancestry.com
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Ellis Island Records
American Passage: The History of Ellis Island

New York Passenger Lists, 1820-1957 [database on-line]. Provo, UT, USA: The Generations Network, Inc., 2006.

www.castlegarden.org
Castle Garden and Battery Park

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