Reach for the Sky!

Today in 1930 the first steel columns for the Empire State Building were set. As an Architect this has real interest to me. This was a time when the reach for the highest building was a passion for those who wanted to leave a mark in the world. To many it is still a passion, to lay claim to the tallest building in the City, State or World. Besides the sheer brilliance of the design what amazes me is the courage and daring of the workers who erected the building. There were no "safety " regulations like we have today. This picture is an awesome look into the workers daily task. It was taken by Lewis Wickes Hines, more of his images can be seen online here. Below are some basic facts on the Empire State Building...maybe you knew them maybe not. You can also take a virtual tour of the building online by clicking here.

Empire State Building
Architect: Shreve, Lamb & Harmon Associates

Facts & Description:

- The Empire State Building is one of the most famous skyscrapers in the world, built in just 18 months during the Great Depression, it was the world's tallest building from 1931-1972. It was surpassed by the World Trade Center, since 9/11/2001 it has regained that title.

-It is 1,453 feet to the top of the lightning rod. There are 102 floors in the building.

-There are 57,000 tons of steel in the structure of the building.

- The shape of the Empire State Building was inspired by its developer, John Jacob Raskob, who is said to have pulled a pencil from his drawer, held it up to his architect (William Lamb), and asked "Bill, how tall can you make it so that it won't fall down?"

- The observation tower at the top of the Empire State Building was originally intended to be a dock for mooring airships. However, after several futile attempts at mooring a zeppelin in the strong winds present at 1250 feet, the idea was scrapped.

- The top of the Empire State Building is lit up at night in different colors to celebrate various holidays.

- The 86th floor observatory is visited by 3.5 million people every year.

In honor of the desire, perseverance and gifts of those who dreamed and created this outstanding building I present this card. I wish you were all around to receive it. WELL DONE! You can find this card in my etsy shop, if you have someone who you wish to honor for their perseverance.