The last time we checked in on the historic Waldorf Astoria, we shared a bevy of photographs before it closed for renovation. Now programmer, journalist and New Yorker John Bolger has shared a video he took of the lobby of the Waldorf Astoria on its final night, featuring the famous clock striking midnight for the last time.
“You can hear the bells but at times the bells are muffled by the sound of the crowd. Nice touch is the piano player wrapped up ‘New York, New York” at the exact time the clock struck its 12th chime,” he tells us.
As we reported in our previous article, the Waldorf-Astoria hotel proper will be reduced in size and remaining sections will be repurposed into condo apartments. In March, the interior of the Waldorf Astoria was officially designed a New York City landmark, a decision which was unanimously decided upon by the Landmarks Preservation Commission; the status will protect the hotel’s various public spaces, including the rooms and corridors on the ground, first, second and third floors. The hotel itself has been an official New York City landmark since 1993. Over the years, it has provided accommodations for royalty including the Duke and Duchess of Windsor. Starting in November 2020, until it is returned to the Waldorf Asotria’s lobby when renovations are complete, the iconic clock will be on display at the New-York Historical Society.
Next, check out the Secrets of the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel and check out our photos of the Last Night at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel.