Portal:New York City/Did you know/17

Latting Observatory

... that the Latting Observatory (pictured), described as "New York's first skyscraper", was the tallest building in the United States at 315 feet (96 m) during its brief life from 1853 until it burnt down in 1856?
... that Four Freedoms Park was built from plans found in the architect's pocket when he died of a heart attack?
... that as of 1981, New York City's Toy Center was the site of 95% of the toy business transacted in the United States?
... that center George Gregory led the Columbia Lions in 1930–31 to its first title in what was to become the Ivy League, and was later named as the first African American All-American basketball player?
... that Bagel Bakers Local 338 controlled bagel making in New York City for decades, with a 1951 strike creating a "bagel famine" that resulted in sales of lox dropping up to 50% in area delis?

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