The Metropolitan Life Insurance company constructed a 700 foot tower on Madison Ave just north of 23rd St. in 1909 which took the title of world’s tallest building and held that title for over 4 years. in 1929 MetLife decided they wanted the title back and began construction of what would have been the first 100 story skyscraper.
That’s the original 700 foot tall MetLife Tower on the right.
At 390 to 400 meters, or 1280 to 1310 feet tall, it would have been the world’s tallest. Taller than both the Empire State Building & the Chrysler Building.
Unfortunately, due to the Great Depression, it was never completed. So instead, here’s what we have today.
Wow! I can’t believe over 110 upvotes! Now I know what some folks like. Be ready for more architecture & skyscraper entries.