What Is the Times Square Building?
This 260-foot Art Deco bank building was one of the last designs of architect Ralph Walker!
What Makes It Historical?
Two big events happened in New York on October 29, 1929: the stock market crashed, launching the Great Depression, and the cornerstone of a brand new bank was laid in Rochester. This bank, the Genesee Valley Trust, was designed by Ralph T. Walker of the firm, Voorhees, Gmelin & Walker! Despite the rest of the country falling into economic chaos, this bank went up in less than a year, opening as Rochester’s new tallest building on September 29, 1930! The 42-foot “Wings of Progress” on top were actually inspired by seashells that Mr. Walker found on a beach in the 1920s!
After being sold to 45 Exchange Street, Inc, in 1955, this building became known as the Times Square Building, one of many connections with Manhattan! It features bas-relief carvings by Leo Friedlander of Rockefeller Center, Radio City Music Hall, and US Capitol fame! The lighting was designed by Edward F. Caldwell, whose work also illuminated the White House, Waldorf Astoria, and Flatiron Building! But not all of this building’s marvels are on display, yet. On September 29, 2029, expect to see the opening of a time capsule that was tucked away here the day the cornerstone was laid!
How Can I #HelpTheHelpers?
- Become a member of the Rochester Historical Society!
- Be a responsible visitor! Please respect the signs and pathways, and treat all structures and artifacts with respect. They’ve endured a lot to survive into the present. They’ll need our help to make it into the future!
How Do I Get There?
45 Exchange Blvd
Rochester, NY 14614
(Take Me There!)
When Should I Visit?
The Times Square Building is a multi-use complex, so while you can enjoy the outside any time, there are no organized tours!