American Insurance Company Building

The American Insurance Company Building stands as a 16-story office tower on Washington Street in Newark with a tan brick and limestone facade. Its interior includes nine elevators that serve the full height of the structure, originally designed to move occupants through multiple office floors efficiently.

The building was designed in 1930 by architects John H. and Wilson C. Ely and served as the headquarters for American Insurance Company through 1963. After the company relocated, the structure transitioned to serve different purposes for the city.

The building stands as part of the James Street Commons Historic District, alongside the Newark Museum and Newark Public Library.

The building now houses student dormitories and event spaces within the James Street Commons Historic District. Visitors can access the grand halls with high ceilings and large windows that showcase the original architectural design.

A grand hall features 20-foot-high ceilings and 15-foot windows that create an overwhelming sense of space from the original era. A separate penthouse apartment was once reserved for university leadership and remains a distinctive feature today.

Location: Newark

Inception: 1930

Architects: John H. & Wilson C. Ely

Floors above the ground: 16

Elevators: 9

Part of: James Street Commons Historic District

GPS coordinates: 40.74460,-74.17070

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:50