Waldorf–Astoria (1893–1929)

Waldorf–Astoria (1893–1929)

The Waldorf–Astoria was a luxury hotel located in New York City, United States, that existed from 1893 to 1929. It was the first hotel of its kind to offer complete electricity and private bathrooms, setting a new standard for luxury accommodations in the early 20th century.

History

The Waldorf–Astoria was created from the combination of two hotels, the Waldorf Hotel and the Astoria Hotel, which were owned by members of the Astor family. The Waldorf Hotel was opened in 1893 by William Waldorf Astor, and the Astoria Hotel was opened in 1897 by his cousin, John Jacob Astor IV. The two hotels were connected by a 300-foot corridor known as "Peacock Alley."

Architecture

The Waldorf–Astoria was designed by renowned architect Henry J. Hardenbergh, who also designed the Plaza Hotel and the Dakota Building. The hotel was 13 stories high and covered an entire city block. It was built in the French Renaissance style, with a façade of red brick and limestone.

Legacy

The Waldorf–Astoria was known for its opulence and luxury, attracting many famous guests including Theodore Roosevelt, Mark Twain, and Queen Elizabeth II. The hotel was also the site of many important events, such as the Waldorf Conference in 1949.

The Waldorf–Astoria was demolished in 1929 to make way for the construction of the Empire State Building. However, its legacy lives on in the new Waldorf Astoria New York hotel, which was built in 1931 on Park Avenue.

See also

• List of demolished buildings and structures in New York City
• History of New York City (1898–1945)

References

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