1908 First True Skyscraper Built

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In 1908, the Singer Building, in lower Manhattan, was completed. It was the first true skyscraper, reaching 47 stories. Later the same year, the 50-story Metropolitan Life Building was finished.

In 1908, the Singer Building in lower Manhattan was completed, marking a significant milestone in architectural history as the world’s first true skyscraper. Standing at 47 stories (612 feet), it was the tallest building in the world at the time, showcasing cutting-edge engineering and design. The building symbolized the rapid technological and economic growth of the early 20th century, embodying New York City’s emergence as a global financial hub.

Later that same year, the Metropolitan Life Tower, an even taller structure, was completed. At 50 stories (700 feet), it surpassed the Singer Building to become the new tallest building in the world. Inspired by the Campanile in Venice, the Metropolitan Life Tower was both an architectural marvel and a symbol of corporate ambition, serving as the headquarters for the Metropolitan Life Insurance Company.

The completion of these two iconic skyscrapers in 1908 highlighted the race for vertical expansion in New York City, driven by advancements in steel-frame construction and elevators. While the Singer Building was eventually demolished in 1968 to make way for modern developments, the Metropolitan Life Tower still stands today as a historic landmark, reflecting the city’s enduring legacy of architectural innovation and ambition.