8. The Maid Call Buttons Still Exist

American Irish Historical Society-Headquarters-AIHS-991 Fifth Avenue-Townhouse-80th Street-Mary King Townhouse-NYC_25
One of the original details still remaining embedded into the walls of 991 Fifth Avenue are the maid call buttons – made of pearl. Though they no longer work, they are a clear reminder of the opulence and standard of service expected of the Gilded Age mansions in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.