So, You Wanna Know How Old That Building Is?
New York City: a concrete jungle where dreams are made of... and buildings are made of, well, concrete. But have you ever looked at a building and wondered, "Gee, I bet this old gal has some stories to tell"? Well, buckle up, because we're about to dive into the thrilling world of building age determination.
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| How Do I Find Out How Old A Building Is In Nyc |
The Digital Detective
Let's start with the easy part. In this age of information overload, it's amazing what you can find online.
Tip: Take mental snapshots of important details.
- NYC Department of Buildings (DOB): This is your go-to for official records. Their Building Information System (BIS) is like a building's online dating profile, but without the catfishing (hopefully). You can find permits, violations, and even some historical data.
- Google Maps and Earth: These tools can give you a bird's eye view and sometimes even historical imagery. It's like playing detective with satellite photos!
- Local Historical Societies: If you're into the nitty-gritty, these organizations might have old maps, photos, and even oral histories that can shed some light on your building's past.
The Old-School Approach
Okay, so you've exhausted your online options and you're still craving knowledge. It's time to get your hands dirty (or at least your feet).
QuickTip: Repetition signals what matters most.
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- The Building Itself: Sometimes, the building itself holds clues. Look for cornerstone dates, architectural styles, and construction materials. If you're feeling really adventurous, you could try carbon dating a brick. Just kidding (or am I?).
- The Neighbors: Talk to the old-timers in the neighborhood. They might have been around when the building was just a twinkle in a developer's eye. Just be prepared for some colorful stories.
Caveats and Considerations
Before you get too excited about your building's age, remember a few things:
QuickTip: Pay attention to first and last sentences.
- Records Aren't Always Complete: Buildings can be sneaky about their age. Sometimes records are lost, incomplete, or just plain wrong.
- Renovations and Additions: Buildings often get facelifts. That beautiful brownstone might have a brick heart that's much older than its facade.
- Historic Districts: If your building is in a historic district, there's a good chance it's older than you think. But don't quote me on that.
How To...
- How to find the DOB website? Google "NYC Department of Buildings".
- How to read architectural styles? Check out books or online resources on architectural history.
- How to talk to old people? Be polite, listen attentively, and offer to help them with their groceries.
- How to deal with disappointment if your building is younger than you thought? Order pizza and watch a documentary about really old buildings.
- How to become a building historian? Get a degree in history or architecture, or just start obsessing over old buildings.
So, there you have it. With a little detective work and a touch of curiosity, you can uncover the secrets of your building's past. Happy sleuthing!
QuickTip: Look for repeated words — they signal importance.
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