1910-1915 NYC: Rise of The Skyscraper & Impact of Social Change on The City

Timeline of New York City: 1910-1915

1910: New York City's total population reached 4,766,883, reflecting the city's status as a melting pot of cultures and a burgeoning hub of economic activity. The 1910 census data breakdown by borough shows distinct population densities and growth that highlight the urban expansion of that era. Manhattan, the most densely populated borough, had a population of 2,331,542, underscoring its central role in commerce and industry. Brooklyn followed with 1,634,351 residents, demonstrating its rapid residential and industrial growth. The Bronx had seen significant growth to 430,980, likely spurred by the expansion of infrastructure such as bridges and public transportation that made it more accessible.

Queens and Staten Island, though more sparsely populated than their counterparts, showed notable increases to 284,041 and 85,969, respectively. These figures indicate the early stages of residential expansion that would become more pronounced in the coming decades as more people moved away from the crowded city center to the outer boroughs. The 1910 census data not only provides a snapshot of New York City's population distribution but also serves as a testament to the city's rapid evolution from a compact urban core to a sprawling metropolis. This demographic expansion played a crucial role in shaping the city's socio-economic structure, influencing everything from urban planning and public transportation to cultural institutions and public services, setting the stage for New York's rise as a global city.

1910: Gimbels Department Store solidified its presence in New York City's retail scene by opening a large store in Herald Square, after being founded by Adam Gimbel in 1887. Situated directly across from Macy's, Gimbels not only challenged its rival but also played a pivotal role in transforming Herald Square into one of the city's premier shopping destinations. This strategic move enhanced the competitive landscape of NYC's retail industry, with Gimbels becoming renowned for its wide range of merchandise and aggressive marketing strategies. The store's establishment in such a prominent location contributed significantly to the development of Midtown Manhattan, boosting both traffic and business in the area.

Beyond its economic impact, Gimbels became a cultural icon in New York City, known for its customer service innovations and festive holiday events, which included the famous Gimbels Thanksgiving Day Parade. Introduced in the early 1920s, the parade became a beloved annual tradition that rivaled Macy's own Thanksgiving parade, adding to the city's festive atmosphere and attracting visitors from across the nation. Although Gimbels closed in 1987, its legacy in shaping the retail and cultural landscape of New York City endures. The store's contribution to establishing Herald Square as a global shopping hub has left an indelible mark on the city's economic and cultural history, reflecting the dynamic and competitive spirit of New York's retail environment.

1910: William J. Gaynor initiated crucial reforms in New York City upon taking office, marking a significant departure from the stagnation of George B. McClellan's tenure. A key move was appointing Charles B. Stover as Manhattan Park Commissioner, a pivotal figure in urban recreation, tasked with expanding the city's playgrounds. Stover's efforts culminated in the creation of the first Bureau of Recreation within the Parks Department, heralding a new era for public recreational facilities.

By 1915, the number of NYC playgrounds had surged from nine to 70 under Stover's direction, reflecting a broader initiative to enhance urban living through accessible recreational spaces. This initiative not only improved the physical health and safety of the city's youth but also fostered community engagement and social well-being. Furthermore, the Parks Department's sponsorship of athletic competitions and leagues significantly enriched NYC's recreational landscape, cementing the city's commitment to nurturing a vibrant, dynamic community.

1911: On February 21, Gustav Mahler conducted his final concert at Carnegie Hall in New York City, leading the New York Philharmonic Orchestra in a program that included the world premiere of Ferruccio Busoni's Berceuse elegiaque. Despite suffering from a severe fever and inflamed throat, Mahler, against his doctor's advice, proceeded with the performance. The concert also featured pianist Ernesto Consolo as a soloist. This appearance marked Mahler’s last time on the conductor's podium; he nearly collapsed during the event and was subsequently forced to cancel all further engagements due to his deteriorating health.

Following his final concert, Mahler's health continued to worsen, prompting him and his wife, Alma, to sail for Europe on April 8, seeking better medical care. Unfortunately, Mahler's condition did not improve, and he passed away from a bacterial infection in Vienna on May 18, at the age of 50. His death left his Tenth Symphony incomplete, adding a poignant note to the legacy of a composer who bridged the late-Romantic era with the early 20th century. This event marked the end of Mahler's significant contributions to the musical world, both as a conductor and a composer.

1911: The Winter Garden Theatre, located at 1634 Broadway in Midtown Manhattan, New York City, was originally opened on March 10. The theatre was initially a conversion of the second American Horse Exchange, a structure built by William K. Vanderbilt in 1896. Designed by architect William Albert Swasey, the venue was transformed from a horse exchange into a unique Broadway theatre that featured an auditorium with only one balcony and a garden motif, complete with trusses covered in sky blue canvas and walls adorned with latticework. Its architectural uniqueness is noted for having the widest proscenium opening among all Shubert theatres, a design necessitated by the existing space of the former horse exchange.

Significant renovations occurred in 1922 under the direction of Herbert J. Krapp, who remodeled the theatre's interior by removing the original runway that extended into the audience and lowering the ceiling and proscenium arch to align more closely with the traditional Adamesque style prevalent in other Shubert venues. These changes enhanced the theatre’s elegance and appeal. The Winter Garden Theatre was briefly used as a movie house during the periods from 1928 to 1933 and again in 1945. It returned to its roots in legitimate theatre and went on to host the iconic Broadway show "Cats," which ran for 7,485 performances from 1982 until 2000, making it the longest-running show in the theatre’s history at that time.

1911: On March 25, a devastating fire erupted at the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory in New York City, claiming the lives of 146 workers, predominantly young women and immigrants. The fire started on the eighth floor of the Asch Building at the corner of Greene Street and Washington Place when a bin filled with fabric scraps ignited, likely due to a discarded match or cigarette. The building's inadequate safety measures, including locked doors and blocked exits, prevented many workers from escaping, forcing some to jump from high windows in desperation. Firefighting efforts were hampered by ladders that did not reach the affected floors and a fire escape that collapsed under the weight of escaping workers.

The aftermath of the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire led to significant changes in industrial safety standards and labor laws. Following the tragedy, more than 30 new laws were enacted in New York, focusing on improving factory working conditions, fire codes, and child labor restrictions. The public outrage over the conditions that led to the fire galvanized support for the labor movement and spurred activists and reformers to advocate for lasting changes in worker safety. A permanent memorial to honor the victims was unveiled at the site in 2023, serving as a somber reminder of the event's impact on workplace safety regulations.

1911: In the early hours of March 29, a devastating fire engulfed the New York State Capitol, particularly affecting the Assembly chamber and the New York State Library. Located on the third and fourth floors of the Capitol, the library suffered tremendous losses from the blaze. The fire, which began in the Assembly Library, quickly spread, destroying approximately 450,000 books and 270,000 manuscripts. Among the irreplaceable losses were significant documents from New York's colonial and early state history, marking it as one of the most catastrophic library disasters of modern times. Despite efforts to control the flames, firefighters were hindered by low water pressure and the library's extensive damage was unavoidable.

The aftermath of the fire prompted an extensive salvage operation to rescue what remained of the library's collections. The recovery efforts were led by notable figures such as A.J.F. van Laer, then State Archivist, and antiquarian I.N. Phelps Stokes. Together, they managed to save some of the manuscripts that survived the inferno. The cause of the fire was widely rumored to be a discarded cigar butt; however, investigations pointed more credibly towards faulty electrical wiring. The electrical system, dating back to 1886, was deemed antiquated and likely contributed to the disaster. This tragic event significantly impacted the documentation of New York's history and prompted measures to better protect and manage state records and archives.

1911: On April 14, a catastrophic fire ravaged the Polo Grounds in New York City, effectively destroying the grandstand and left field bleachers. Originating shortly after midnight, the fire decimated the largely wooden structure, leaving only the steel uprights intact. The cause of the blaze remains uncertain, with speculation ranging from a peanut roaster explosion to carelessly discarded smoking materials among peanut shells. This devastating event led to the rapid reconstruction of the Polo Grounds, which was rebuilt with concrete and steel, expanding its seating capacity to 38,000. This new construction set a precedent for other cities, prompting the development of similarly structured baseball stadiums in Philadelphia, Boston, Cincinnati, Pittsburgh, and Brooklyn.

The aftermath of the fire had significant implications for the area and the future of baseball stadiums. With compromised water pressure due to a local pumping station being closed for repairs, firefighters struggled to control the flames, which also threatened nearby elevated train structures. The new Polo Grounds, completed in just 75 days, reopened on June 28, showcasing a robust design that would influence the construction of sports venues across the United States. The fire, its immediate impacts, and the rapid reconstruction efforts underscore the transition in architectural practices for major sports facilities during the early 20th century, emphasizing safety and durability.

1911: The opening of the New York Public Library's main branch, now known as the Stephen A. Schwarzman Building, on May 23, marked a significant cultural milestone in New York City. Located at Fifth Avenue and 42nd Street, this iconic Beaux-Arts structure was constructed on the former site of the Croton Reservoir. Designed by the renowned architectural firm Carrère and Hastings, the library was inaugurated with a grand ceremony attended by President William Howard Taft and thousands of visitors, signaling the city's deep commitment to public education and access to knowledge.

Over the years, this flagship location has hosted numerous significant events, including a prominent suffrage parade in 1913. It features elaborate interiors such as the Main Reading Room and the Public Catalog Room, designed to support a wide range of educational activities and exhibitions. Recognized as a National Historic Landmark in 1965, the building is celebrated for its stunning architecture and as a vital institution dedicated to the advancement of public knowledge. Today, it stands not only as a pinnacle of architectural achievement but also as a vibrant center for historical research and public education.

1911: New York City's Department of Parks continued the policy initiated in the previous year, focusing on securing public access to the parks and expanding the playground system. This effort was part of a broader initiative to improve and increase recreational spaces across the city, with an allocated budget of a quarter of a million dollars aimed at both new developments and enhancements to existing facilities. Notable among these were playgrounds established outside park areas in densely populated tenement regions, as well as conversions within parks where lawns, due to their location in crowded districts, could not be maintained. These included the transformation of spaces in Mulberry Bend, Battery Park, and along 96th Street in Riverside Park. Additionally, properties initially acquired for different purposes, like the plot on Amsterdam Avenue between 151st and 152nd streets, were repurposed as playgrounds.

The city's investment in public recreational spaces saw considerable progress in the creation and improvement of several key areas. Work began on field houses at playgrounds on West 59th Street and East 101st Street, which were intended to provide indoor recreation facilities, shower baths, and lockers. At Mulberry Bend Park, a once bare central lawn was redeveloped into a playground with a running track and new drainage systems, enclosed by an iron picket fence. Similar enhancements were made in other areas, including St. Gabriel’s Park and Cherry Street adjacent to the Manhattan Bridge. These developments not only improved the physical infrastructure but also enriched the recreational opportunities available to the city's residents, underlining the administration’s commitment to enhancing urban life through well-maintained and accessible public spaces.

1911: On May 27,, Dreamland, one of Coney Island’s premier amusement parks, was destroyed by a massive fire that began when a worker accidentally kicked over a bucket of hot pitch, igniting the highly flammable construction materials used throughout the park. The fire spread rapidly, consuming the entire park within hours due to the wooden structures and scenic elements made from plaster. Despite the extensive damage, which resulted in the complete destruction of Dreamland, there were no human fatalities reported from the blaze. The event marked one of the most significant fires in New York City’s history at the time, drawing massive public attention and impacting future fire safety regulations.

In the aftermath of the fire, the city of New York took proactive steps to redevelop the area and prevent future tragedies. By 1912, the city had begun the process of acquiring the land through condemnation, a move that facilitated the transformation of the site and surrounding areas into safer and more regulated public spaces. This acquisition was part of a broader effort by the city to enhance safety and public enjoyment at Coney Island, which continued to evolve as a beloved destination. The fire's legacy also includes the installation of a memorial bell at the Coney Island Museum, salvaged from the Dreamland Pier by local divers in 2009, serving as a historical reminder of the park and its dramatic end.

1911: The Eastern North America heat wave, one of the deadliest in U.S. history, began on July 4, and lasted until July 15. This severe heat wave caused widespread suffering and resulted in the deaths of approximately 380 to 2,000 individuals, according to various estimates. Cities such as New York City were particularly hard hit, with the urban environment exacerbating the effects of the heat. Records indicate that the temperatures during this period reached extreme highs, with some locations experiencing night-time temperatures so oppressive that they provided no relief from the day's heat. The impact was devastating, with numerous deaths reported among both humans and animals due to heatstroke and related conditions.

In response to the unbearable heat, city officials and residents sought various methods to cope with the temperatures. Public measures included the opening of fire hydrants to cool the streets, while many individuals resorted to sleeping in parks or near bodies of water to escape the heat of their homes. Despite these efforts, the heat wave overwhelmed the capacity of local services and infrastructure. This event highlighted the need for better urban planning and emergency preparedness in response to extreme weather conditions. The aftermath of the heat wave saw significant discussions about urban living conditions and the necessity for improved architectural designs to mitigate such heat effects in the future.

1911: On July 27, a significant administrative change occurred in New York City's management of its boroughs with the establishment of a separate commissioner position specifically for Queens. This move was part of a broader reorganization intended to provide more localized oversight and governance as the needs of the different boroughs diverged. Walter G. Eliot was appointed as the first Queens Commissioner, signifying the city's commitment to addressing the unique administrative and infrastructural challenges faced by Queens, which had seen rapid development and population growth. This new position allowed for more focused leadership and strategic planning specific to the borough's needs, enhancing the effectiveness of municipal services and community responsiveness.

Prior to this reorganization, the boroughs of Brooklyn and Queens were jointly managed by a single commissioner, Michael J. Kennedy, who oversaw the expansive areas as part of his remit. The separation of these roles underlined the increasing complexity and scale of urban management required in New York City during the early 20th century. Commissioners like Charles Stover, who managed Manhattan and Richmond, and Thomas Higgins, who was responsible for the Bronx, similarly tailored their approaches to meet the specific demands of their respective boroughs. The creation of a dedicated Queens Commissioner helped streamline decision-making processes and improved administrative efficiency, setting a precedent for future urban governance models in rapidly growing cities.

1911: John Edward Bruce and Arthur Alfonso Schomburg co-founded the Negro Society for Historical Research (NSHR) in Yonkers, New York. The organization was established as a cultural league inspired by the earlier American Negro Academy, founded by Alexander Crummell. Its main goal was to support Pan-African scholarship, covering African, West Indian, and Afro-American histories. The society's activities included collecting books and manuscripts, hosting meetings with prominent Black speakers, and maintaining a collection that eventually laid the groundwork for future archival institutions. Schomburg emphasized the importance of gathering a comprehensive library of works by Black authors to illuminate the history and contributions of people of African descent.

By 1922, health issues forced Bruce to retire, and he subsequently passed away on August 7, 1924, at Bellevue Hospital in New York City. His death marked the end of significant leadership within the NSHR, which had played a crucial role in advocating for Black historical research and education. The society's collected works, maintained primarily in Schomburg's apartment as a lending library, became the core of the New York Public Library's Schomburg Collection of Negro Literature and Art. This collection later evolved into the renowned Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture in Harlem, continuing the society's mission to preserve and celebrate the rich history of Black communities.

1911: New York State enacted the Sullivan Act, a pioneering gun control law that responded to public outcry following high-profile shootings, including the attempt on New York City Mayor William J. Gaynor in August 1910 and the assassination of novelist David Graham Phillips in January. Named after state senator Timothy Sullivan, the law was the first of its kind to mandate that individuals obtain a police-issued permit to legally carry concealed firearms. This legislation set a precedent for future "may-issue" laws and significantly influenced the trajectory of gun control across the United States.

The Sullivan Act not only required permits for carrying concealable guns but also initiated a licensing system for the sale of handguns, thereby regulating both possession and commerce. The act became a model for similar regulations nationwide, due to its comprehensive approach to addressing gun violence and firearms accessibility. Despite its pioneering status, the act was also controversial for its selective enforcement and the bribery schemes it enabled within the licensing process. It marked a significant moment in the history of American legislation by linking gun control directly with public safety concerns.

1911: Samuel Parsons Jr., a prominent landscape architect and a protégé of Calvert Vaux, resigned as the head landscape architect of New York City, concluding nearly three decades of influential work in urban landscaping. Throughout his career, Parsons was instrumental in the design and planting of several major New York City parks including Central Park, Riverside Park, and Morningside Park, among others. His notable projects extended beyond park boundaries to include significant city landmarks such as the Washington Memorial Arch and Grand Army Plaza Arch. Parsons' commitment to enhancing urban green spaces greatly shaped the landscape architecture of New York City during a pivotal era of its development.

In addition to his practical contributions to city landscaping, Samuel Parsons Jr. also authored several books, with his 1915 publication, "The Art of Landscape Architecture," being among his most influential works. This book reflected his deep understanding of and appreciation for landscape design as an art form, influencing generations of landscape architects. Parsons' career was closely aligned with the broader movements of his time, particularly the City Beautiful movement, which aimed to introduce beautification and monumental grandeur in cities. His resignation marked the end of a significant chapter in New York City's development of public spaces, transitioning the role of city planning and park development to future architects and planners inspired by his legacy.

1912: Founded with a bequest from Joseph Pulitzer, the Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism set a new standard for journalism education in New York City. It aimed to enhance journalistic standards and professionalism, offering programs focused on ethical reporting, investigative journalism, and media technology adaptation. This institution rapidly became an essential hub for journalism education, contributing significantly to the city's and the global media landscape.

The school's influence extends beyond New York, reinforcing the city's status as a journalism and media innovation leader. Producing distinguished journalists and media professionals, its graduates have made substantial impacts on journalism worldwide. The Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism exemplifies New York City's pivotal role in journalism's development and evolution, highlighting its commitment to fostering journalistic excellence.

1912: Established in Harlem, Citarella's market transitioned from a simple seafood vendor to a distinguished gourmet destination, encapsulating New York City's culinary evolution and its demand for diverse, high-quality offerings. This journey highlights the significant impact of immigrant entrepreneurship and the crucial role small businesses play in shaping NYC's culinary scene.

The journey over a century highlights its influence on New York City's food industry, embodying local business success and the importance of specialty markets in driving culinary innovation. Its expansion not only meets the sophisticated demands of New Yorkers but also reinforces NYC's status as a culinary capital, underscoring the essential role of markets like Citarella in enriching the city's food landscape and community.

1912: Horn & Hardart's Automat, launched in Times Square, revolutionized New York City's dining scene with its coin-operated, self-service system. This innovation introduced a fast, efficient, and economical dining model, attracting a wide audience and setting the stage for the modern fast-food industry. Its advent marked a significant transformation in how meals were served and consumed, catering to the fast-paced lifestyle of urban dwellers.

Becoming a cultural staple, the Automat epitomized New York's embrace of progress and technology in everyday life. It influenced not just the city's culinary trends but also its social dynamics, reflecting shifts towards greater convenience and efficiency. This iconic establishment led the evolution of dining practices, inspiring the growth of similar fast-food ventures and significantly shaping America's food industry landscape.

1912: Aeolian Hall, inaugurate in New York City, swiftly became an architectural and cultural beacon, renowned for its eclectic musical performances that spanned from classical to jazz. This venue significantly propelled NYC's status as a leading arts and culture destination, creating a stage for both emerging and celebrated artists.

A landmark event in its history was hosting George Gershwin's "Rhapsody in Blue" premiere on February 12, 1924, with Paul Whiteman's orchestra and Gershwin on the piano. This performance not only highlighted Aeolian Hall's importance in American music but also underscored New York City's pivotal role in the fusion of classical music and jazz, showcasing the city's ongoing influence on musical innovation and cultural richness.

1912: The Audubon Ballroom, nestled in Manhattan's Washington Heights, has significantly influenced New York City's cultural and historical landscape since its inception. Serving variously as a theater, lecture hall, and social venue, it has become a distinguished landmark. Its most notable moment came on February 21, 1965, with the assassination of civil rights leader Malcolm X, marking a critical point in civil rights history and cementing the ballroom's significance as a symbol of struggle and change.

The Audubon Ballroom's legacy extends beyond architecture, embodying a profound piece of America's civil rights story. This venue's transformation from a local gathering place to a site of historical importance highlights its enduring impact on New York City's diverse landscape, offering a space for reflection on justice and equality's ongoing pursuit.

1912: The 48th Street Theatre, emerging as a cornerstone of Manhattan's theater district, opened its doors and began offering a rich assortment of plays and musicals. This establishment significantly enriched New York City's cultural landscape, asserting itself as a central hub for arts and entertainment. It played a pivotal role in broadening the city's theatrical landscape, attracting a wide audience base and nurturing a deep appreciation for the performing arts.

The theatre's establishment marked a key expansion in New York City's artistic offerings, reinforcing its reputation as a cultural capital. Through its diverse programming, the 48th Street Theatre contributed to New York's dynamic and vibrant cultural milieu, underscoring the essential role of theater in urban life and the city's ongoing influence on global arts and culture.

1912: The RMS Carpathia's arrival in New York City on April 18, with 705 Titanic survivors, underscored New York's pivotal role in maritime history. The Carpathia's journey to Pier 54, following the Titanic's iceberg collision and subsequent sinking on April 15, which resulted in about 1,517 fatalities, captured global attention. This event not only connected New York to a monumental maritime disaster but also spotlighted its capacity to handle crises, drawing significant public and media focus.

This incident spurred significant maritime safety reforms, influenced by discussions and inquiries in New York, underscoring the city's key contributions to international safety protocols. Notably, The Jane Hotel, which provided shelter to Titanic survivors in 1912, epitomizes New York's crucial involvement in maritime history. The rescue mission by the Carpathia, coupled with The Jane's historical hospitality to the survivors, marks an essential chapter in New York City's heritage.

1913: The International Exhibition of Modern Art, more commonly known as the Armory Show, was a landmark event held from February 17 to March 15, 1913, at the 69th Regiment Armory in New York City. This exhibition was monumental as it introduced the American public to European avant-garde art, featuring works by Vincent van Gogh, Pablo Picasso, Marcel Duchamp, and many others.

This event significantly impacted New York City, transforming it into a key center for artistic innovation and paving its way to becoming a global art capital. By challenging traditional artistic norms and broadening appreciation for modern art, the Armory Show's legacy continues to underscore New York's critical role in shaping modern art history and its enduring influence on cultural and artistic trends worldwide.

1913: Grand Central Terminal, unveiled on February 2, stands as a testament to New York City's architectural ambition and growth, transforming from Cornelius Vanderbilt's railway hub into the world's largest train station at its completion. Designed as a majestic gateway, its innovative features, including a vast concourse, detailed facade, and electric trains, marked a leap in design and engineering, addressing the era's transportation challenges.

This landmark's introduction reshaped Midtown Manhattan, propelling the city's northward expansion and bolstering its role as a commerce and transport nucleus. Grand Central not only enhanced New York's connectivity but also its urban landscape, driving real estate development and economic growth around its vicinity. Its enduring legacy, beyond facilitating transit, enriches the city's architectural heritage, making it a vibrant focal point for both locals and visitors.

1913: Prentice Hall, established in 1913, quickly became a premier publisher in the American educational landscape, focusing on textbooks and academic materials spanning multiple disciplines. Its dedication to enriching educational content solidified Prentice Hall's role as a foundational force in academic and professional advancement, markedly elevating the dissemination of knowledge and learning.

This pioneering venture enriched New York City's publishing ecosystem, emphasizing the city's critical role in shaping the national publishing industry. Prentice Hall's contributions have bolstered New York’s intellectual and cultural expansion, supporting its academic community and affirming the city's status as a hub for educational innovation and publishing excellence.

1913: Since opening within the iconic Grand Central Terminal, the Grand Central Oyster Bar has established itself as a landmark dining destination in New York City. Positioned within an architectural marvel, it truly delivers a unique culinary experience, specializing in seafood and a broad selection of oysters.

As a cherished institution, the Grand Central Oyster Bar stands as a testament to New York's rich history. Its sustained appeal highlights New Yorkers' and visitors' fondness for historic locales that bridge the past with the present, enhancing New York's vibrant and storied landscape.

1913: Vanity Fair, launched, and swiftly solidified its status in New York City as a pivotal cultural and literary beacon. Renowned for its discerning coverage of culture, fashion, politics, and society, it drew from a pool of distinguished writers and photographers, shaping public discourse until its merger with Vogue in 1936 under Condé Nast.

Vanity Fair's debut significantly bolstered New York City's standing as a media and culture nexus, mirroring and molding its audience's interests. Its emphasis on literature and the arts greatly enriched the city's cultural fabric, positioning it as a key player in media and cultural analysis. Relaunched in 1983, Vanity Fair continues to influence cultural trends globally, underscoring New York's enduring impact on cultural and literary innovation.

1913: Following the enactment of the Federal Reserve Act on December 23, the Federal Reserve Bank of New York became a cornerstone of the Federal Reserve System established in 1914. As one of twelve regional Reserve Banks, it plays a crucial role in U.S. monetary policy, financial supervision, and the overall functionality of the system, significantly influencing the financial and banking structure of the United States. Strategically positioned in a global financial epicenter, the New York Fed ensures the stability and efficiency of financial operations.

Situated in New York City, the Federal Reserve Bank of New York is crucial for both domestic and international economies, managing financial institutions in its district. It executes monetary policy, oversees financial entities, and offers services to various institutions, reinforcing New York City's prominence as a worldwide financial hub. The New York Fed not only enhances the city's economic fortitude but also affirms its pivotal position in global finance, marking a substantial contribution to the city's economic and financial landscape.

1913: The "Cathedral of Commerce," or the Woolworth Building, completed in 1913, became the world's tallest at 60 stories and nearly 800 feet, reshaping New York City's skyline for 17 years. Celebrated for its Gothic design and groundbreaking construction, it stood as a beacon of architectural prowess in Lower Manhattan. A century later, it still ranks among the top twenty tallest buildings in the city, a testament to its enduring legacy and impact.

The Woolworth Building's continued prominence underscores its significant role in New York's architectural and economic history. Symbolizing the city's growth and innovation in the early 20th century, its lasting influence on skyscraper design and the urban landscape solidifies its position in New York City's cultural and historical narrative, reflecting a century of architectural evolution and resilience.

1913: The transformation from the New York Highlanders to the Yankees heralded a new chapter in baseball history, positioning the "Yankees" as a byword for triumph and distinction in Major League Baseball. This strategic rebranding catalyzed the team's ascent to the pinnacle of sports excellence, laying the groundwork for a legacy of success and influence in the baseball world.

This pivotal shift significantly enriched New York City's sports narrative, establishing the Yankees as a cornerstone of the city's vibrant sports culture. Their storied history of World Series victories and the cultivation of a passionate fanbase have fortified New York's status as a premier sports metropolis. The Yankees' enduring success underscores the city's economic and cultural dynamism, affirming its place on the global stage as a focal point for premier sporting achievements.

1913: Constituted within the New York Army National Guard, the 15th New York Infantry Regiment, later known as the "Harlem Hellfighters," was established on June 2, 1913. Their transformation into a formidable unit came during World War I, where their unmatched bravery and combat prowess earned them their enduring nickname. This regiment's inception was driven by a need for bolstered national defense and quickly became pivotal in demonstrating American valor on the global stage.

The Harlem Hellfighters' storied service in World War I, where they served longer in front-line trenches than any other American unit, set them apart. As one of the first African American regiments to join the American Expeditionary Forces, their valor was internationally recognized, earning them France's Croix de Guerre. Their legacy, deeply ingrained in New York City's history, highlights the city's role in shaping military excellence and advancing the recognition of African American contributions to national defense and global peace.

1914: Bronx County's creation on January 1, as New York State's 62nd and final county, marked a defining moment in urban organization, transitioning parts of New York County, annexed from Westchester, into a distinct administrative region. This pivotal restructuring underscored the Bronx's unique identity within New York City's extensive metropolitan framework, setting a precedent for urban development and governance.

This reorganization not only clarified the Bronx's administrative role but also optimized governance and services for its residents, symbolizing the completion of New York City's contemporary borough system. Establishing the Bronx as an independent county significantly propelled its growth and facilitated a more manageable, diverse urban population. This event mirrored New York City's capacity for evolution and diversity, showcasing its complex mosaic of neighborhoods and fostering the borough's development and community identity.

1914: Founded by Joel Russ, Russ & Daughters stands as a pioneering food shop on Manhattan’s Lower East Side, offering Jewish culinary staples like smoked fish, caviar, and bagels. This establishment quickly became integral to New York City's gastronomic landscape, celebrated for its adherence to tradition and quality.

For over a century, Russ & Daughters has exemplified New York City's mosaic of cultures, underscoring the impact of immigrant entrepreneurship on the city's culinary evolution. This family-operated landmark not only showcases the city's dynamic history but also its capacity for innovation, drawing both locals and visitors to experience its enduring legacy and contribution to New York's diverse and vibrant food scene.

1914: Founded in 1870, Hunter College underwent significant transformations, culminating in its rebranding in honor of Thomas Hunter, its founder and first president. This transition underscored the institution's commitment to education, marked notably by the separation of its high school from college courses in 1903. The high school, designated for the intellectually gifted, began admitting boys in 1974, evolving into a premier educational facility for gifted children.

Hunter College's Elementary School originated in 1940, adapting to the needs of gifted students through innovative programs. By integrating grades seven and eight into the high school and launching a nursery program, Hunter College redefined its educational approach. The relocation of both schools to 94th Street in 1977 from their original campus at 68th Street and Lexington Avenue highlighted their integral role in enriching New York City's educational framework, fostering a legacy of academic excellence and innovation.

1914: Founded by Charles E. Merrill, a bond dealer with a visionary approach, Merrill, Lynch & Company was established on January 6, 1914, quickly specializing in underwriting securities for rapidly growing chain stores. This innovative financial strategy not only marked the firm's foray into investment banking but also set a precedent for financial practices in America.

The partnership between Charles Merrill and Edmund C. Lynch, renaming the firm Merrill, Lynch & Company, solidified its foundation and propelled its growth. Focusing on a niche market, the firm's early success significantly contributed to the evolution of investment banking and cemented its legacy on Wall Street and in New York City's financial history.

1915: The first transcontinental telephone call on January 25, marked a pivotal moment in telecommunications, linking San Francisco and New York City. Initiated by Alexander Graham Bell from New York to Thomas Watson in San Francisco, this technological triumph underscored the potential of nationwide voice communication, setting a new benchmark in the telecommunication industry's evolution.

This historic call emphasized New York City's integral role in spearheading technological and economic advancements in the U.S. Acting as a critical hub in this landmark event, the city enhanced its status as a leader in fostering innovation. The successful cross-country communication not only bridged physical distances but also previewed New York's enduring influence on shaping future global communications, heralding a new era of connectivity that would continue to evolve and expand.

1915: Departing from New York City on May 1, for Liverpool, the RMS Lusitania's final voyage ended tragically when a German U-boat sank it on May 7, leading to 1,198 casualties. This event not only caused international dismay but also shifted U.S. public opinion, contributing to America's WWI involvement.

New York City's role as the Lusitania's last port underscores its pivotal position in this maritime disaster, highlighting the inherent dangers of civilian sea travel during conflict. The city's communities felt a direct impact, with many losing loved ones. This catastrophe remains a significant chapter in New York's rich maritime history, emphasizing its enduring link to global historical events.