161 Madison Avenue, New York: A Glimpse into Midtown's Architectural History
161 Madison Avenue stands as a testament to New York City's ever-evolving architectural landscape. Located in the heart of Midtown Manhattan, this address boasts a rich history, though specific details about the building itself are surprisingly scarce online. This lack of readily available information highlights the challenge of researching the history of less-famous, yet still significant, New York City buildings. This article will delve into what we can uncover about 161 Madison Avenue, exploring its context within the neighborhood and the broader architectural trends of its era.
Understanding the Context: Midtown Manhattan's Architectural Evolution
Midtown Manhattan's architectural story is one of constant transformation. The area's development progressed significantly throughout the 20th century, with various architectural styles reflecting the economic and social climate of each period. From early skyscrapers to mid-century modern designs and the contemporary glass towers of today, the neighborhood's buildings tell a compelling narrative. Pinpointing the exact construction date and architectural style of 161 Madison Avenue requires further investigation, likely involving archival research of city records and historical building surveys.
What We Know (and Don't Know) About 161 Madison Avenue
Unfortunately, a comprehensive online record for 161 Madison Avenue is missing. This often happens with buildings that don't hold particularly prominent historical significance or haven't undergone major renovations that have been publicly documented. However, by analyzing its location and neighboring structures, we can draw some reasonable inferences.
Given its address in Midtown, it's highly likely 161 Madison Avenue is a multi-story commercial or office building, typical of the area. The building's age could range significantly, from a pre-war structure to a post-war construction, depending on its exact date of construction which remains unconfirmed. It's possible the building has undergone renovations and alterations over the years, obscuring its original architectural features.
Addressing Common Questions:
While definitive answers about 161 Madison Avenue's specifics are elusive, let's tackle some common questions that arise when searching for information about a specific address:
H2: Who owns 161 Madison Avenue?
Determining the current owner of 161 Madison Avenue would require a search of New York City property records. These records are usually publicly accessible but require navigating specific databases.
H2: What is the history of 161 Madison Avenue?
Uncovering the complete history of 161 Madison Avenue would involve dedicated archival research. This could include examining historical city directories, building permits, and potentially even contacting the New York City Municipal Archives.
H2: What type of building is located at 161 Madison Avenue?
Based on the location and general characteristics of Midtown Manhattan buildings, it's highly probable that 161 Madison Avenue is a commercial or office building, potentially multiple stories in height.
H2: When was 161 Madison Avenue built?
The construction date of 161 Madison Avenue is currently unknown and requires further investigation through city records and historical research.
The Importance of Local Historical Research
This exploration of 161 Madison Avenue underscores the importance of local historical research when trying to unearth information about specific buildings. While the internet provides vast resources, it doesn't encompass every detail of every building. For comprehensive understanding, accessing local archives and databases is crucial. This process can be time-consuming, but it often reveals fascinating details about a building's past.
Conclusion:
While a detailed history of 161 Madison Avenue remains elusive, its location within the vibrant Midtown Manhattan landscape offers a glimpse into the architectural evolution of New York City. The search for its story highlights the challenges and rewards of uncovering the hidden histories contained within the city's many buildings. Further research into city records is needed to fully unveil the history of this relatively unassuming yet significant address.
