1930: Chrysler Building

1930: 40 Wall Street and the Chrysler Building were in a competition to become the world’s tallest building. By the end of 1929 the buildings were neck and neck with each other, when 40 Wall Street announced that it was going to be taller than originally planed to ensure its record title. William Van Allen, the architect of the Chrysler Building responded by constructing a 125 foot tall spire within the building’s shell. On October 23, 1929, the spire was hoisted into place securing the Chrysler Building’s title of world’s tallest building. In 1978, the exterior and interior of this Art Deco masterpiece were designated New York City Landmarks.

Replica 1929 Chrysler radiator caps adorn the building