254–260 Canal Street facts for kids
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254–260 Canal Street
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(2012)
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| Location | 254–260 Canal Street Manhattan, New York City |
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| Architect | James Bogardus |
| Architectural style | Italian Renaissance Revival |
| NRHP reference No. | 06000475 |
Quick facts for kids Significant dates |
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| Added to NRHP | June 7, 2006 |
The building at 254–260 Canal Street, also known as the Bruce Building, is a historic building in the Chinatown area of Manhattan, New York City. It stands on the corner of Lafayette Street. This building was constructed between 1856 and 1857. It was designed in a style called Italian Renaissance Revival.
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What is the Bruce Building?
The Bruce Building is famous for its use of cast-iron in its design. The cast-iron parts of the building's front might have been made by James Bogardus. He was a pioneer in using cast iron for buildings. The building was built for George Bruce. He was a successful printer and invented new printing technologies. Printing was a very important industry in New York at that time. In 1987, the building was changed into offices by architect Jack L. Gordon.
Why is Cast Iron Important in Architecture?
The Bruce Building is five stories tall. Using cast-iron columns allowed for very large windows. These big windows helped improve working conditions inside. They also made manufacturing more efficient. The land where the building stands became available after a lumber mill burned down. Because of this fire, building with fire-resistant cast iron was a very good idea.
The building's slightly Italianate style makes it a beautiful example of 19th-century industrial architecture. People have called it "Beautiful!" and "an important early example of cast-iron architecture in New York City." If the cast iron truly came from Bogardus's company, this building would be his largest and most important work that still exists today.
Landmark Status
The Bruce Building is recognized for its historical importance. It was named a New York City landmark in 1985. Later, in 2006, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places. This means it is protected for its historical and architectural value.
See also
In Spanish: 254-260 Canal Street para niños
