Excelsior Power Company Building, Romanesque revival power station in Financial District, Manhattan, US
The Excelsior Power Company Building is a seven-story red brick structure on Gold Street with terra cotta details, stone blocks, and heavy arches throughout its facade. Original metal lettering and ornamental features remain visible, preserving the appearance of the former power plant.
The building was constructed in 1888 by William Milne Grinnell as one of Manhattan's first facilities to generate power for commercial businesses and industry. It marks an important moment when the city began transitioning to electricity as its primary energy source.
The building shows how the neighborhood transformed industrial spaces into homes while keeping the original look intact. This approach shaped how the Financial District developed and proves old structures can serve new purposes.
The building sits on Gold Street in the Financial District and is easily accessible by public transit. The facade can be viewed from the street level, making it simple to see the architectural details from outside.
The metal lettering at the entrance displays an early form of Art Nouveau styling, which was uncommon for commercial buildings at the time. These details show how craftsmanship and design came together in practical industrial structures.
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