I have heard about 9th street historic area but I have never walked around so I did. My goal is to find the New York Life Building.
Built between 1887-1890
Considered the first skyscraper in Kansas City
and the first building with elevators
The building has 10 story wings surrounding a 12 story tower
This bronze eagle taking care of a nest of babies watches the building.
The eagle weighs 2 tons.
The was added to the National Registry of Historic Building in 1970.
It was used until 1988 but then was abandoned.
In 1996, the building received a $35 million update for energy, communications and environment.
(They added air conditioning)
Inside the doors
The lobby.
My research said the lobby was open for visitors.
It really was!
Mosaic Design in Floor
Amazing Skylight
Looking toward the doors
More Floors
Old mail system
Elevators
Ceiling of the entrance
New York Life
I know I have old building issues but the pictures do not do justice for this building. The skylight (10-12 stories) is breathtaking. The marble and granite in the lobby with the mosaic floors are gorgeous. And they let me in to take pictures!! The building is now owned by the Roman Catholic Diocese of Kansas City-Saint Joseph, purchased in 2010 for $11.7 million.
They have renamed it the "Catholic Center".
(and my foot)
Just one more picture of the roof
Next: The Bunker Building
Built in 1881
Walter Bunker managed the KC chapter of the Western Newspaper Union.
Muse of the Missouri Fountain
Of course fountains are turned off for the year and this one looks like it's being repaired.
Mr. and Mrs. James Kemper presented this memorial to the city in honor of their son, Lt. David Kemper, who was killed in World War II.
We will need to return in the spring to see the fountain working.
What a great day which was filled with beauty.
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