The Iconic Chrysler Building Officially Opens in NYC

At the time, it was the tallest building in the world, standing an astonishing 1,046 feet high.  Built during America’s Great Skyscraper Race, the Chrysler Building quickly became the symbol of innovation, ambition and the bold spirit of a nation that was determined to dream big!
 
Commissioned by automobile pioneer Walter P. Chrysler, the building was designed in the Art Deco style and featured gleaming stainless steel details, eagle gargoyles modeled after Chrysler hood ornaments and a massive spire that was secretly assembled inside the building and raised into place to help claim the world-record height.  
 
The building was completed during the early years of the Great Depression, a time when much of the nation faced uncertainty and hardship.  Yet America was still building, creating, inventing and reaching upward.  

For 11 months, the Chrysler Building the title of the tallest building in the world before the Empire State Building surpass it in in 1931.  Even so, nearly a century later, it remains one of the most recognizable skyscrapers in American history.  And it serves as a shining reminder, even in a time when things were tough, vision, determination and bold courage make things happen!