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notes
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One Broadway, now a Citibank,
was formerly owned by the International Mercantile Marine Company.
It was purchased by the IMM in 1920-21, so is post-Titanic but is
definitely a pertinant site. There are two side doors depicting
"First Class" and "Cabin Class" entrances. Along
this sidewalk now is a major bus stop so it was difficult to get these
photos during rush hour when I was there.
This relatively small 1882 neoclassical building marks the beginning of
Broadway. General Washington's revolutionary headquarters was an even
earlier occupant of the site.
The owners, known eventually as the United States Line, incorporated
many marine symbols in a 1921 facade update, just as their competitor the
Cunard Line had done two years earlier. The grand entryway is surrounded
by shells and sea icons, and the second floor windows alternate with
colorful Venetian mosaic shields of great port cities. Inside, two
gigantic murals depict shipping lanes and a compass dominates the marble
floor.
The booking room is modelled after an 18th century ballroom. It is a
regal setting with columns and fanciful iron mezzanine railings at either
end and four impressive chandeliers. The current tenant uses it as its
banking floor.
To make a statement about your own status, you can enter or leave by
one of the two doors facing Battery Place. One is for First Class, the
other, Cabin.
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