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 It is so much more interesting to learn about this building when you can compare it with past accomplishments of other civilizations, the events which have been integral to many conversations and the aspect of science.
Mooring Mast:
A dirigible mast, now the base of the TV tower, was part of the original construction of the Building. One attempt to moor a privately owned blimp was successful for three minutes. But during a second attempt, in September 1931, a Navy Blimp was almost upended and nearly swept away celebrities attending the historic affair, while the water ballast drenched pedestrians several blocks away. The mooring mast idea was ultimately abandoned.
Bomber Crash:
On July 28, 1945, an Army Air Corps B-25 crashed into the Building at the 79th floor level. Fourteen people died. Damage to the Building was $1 million but the structural integrity of the building was not affected.
Introduction to New York Exhibit:
The display on the second floor features special exhibits highlighting the flavor of New York, including museums, cultural institutions and tourist attractions.
Fifth Avenue Gallery Windows:
The Fifth Avenue lobby features six display windows which exhibit art and memorabilia from New York City's myriad of museums. galleries, and artists. The exhibits change several times a year.
Air Race Checkpoint:
In May, 1969, the Building was one of the two check points in the Transatlantic Air Race commemorating the 50th anniversary of the first Transatlantic flight by two British pilots.
Datum Point:
The Empire State Building is located at:
- Latitude: 40 degrees 44 minutes 53.977 seconds north
- Longitude: 73 degrees 59 minutes 10.812 seconds west
VIP Photos:
The world's famous have come to admire the unmatched view from the Empire State Building's Observatory. Photos of some of them are on display in the observatory ticket office on the Concourse level. Visitors have included heads of state from almost every country in the world, film stars (including Lassie), U.S. political figures and men and women of every accomplishment.
Building Sway:
The Empire State Building does not sway… it gives. With a wind of 110 miles per hour, the Building gives 1.48 inches. Movement off center is never greater than one quarter inch, thus measurable movement is only one half inch, one quarter inch on either side.
Bird Migrations:
During the Spring and Autumn bird migration season, the lights that illuminate the Building tower are turned off on foggy nights so that lights shining through the fog will not confuse birds, causing them to fly into the building.
Landmark Status:
On May 18, 1981, the Building (exterior and lobby) was declared a Landmark by the New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission. On December 20, 1982, the Building was listed on the State and National Register of Historic Places. On October 23 rd, 1986, it was recognized as a National Historic Landmark by the National Parks Services, I.S. Department of the Interior and a commemorative plaque was awarded.
King Kong:
On April 7, 1983, King Kong returned to the Empire State Building to celebrate his 50th anniversary. Fans the world over cheered his triumphant ascent. The 85 foot, three thousand pound inflatable Kong was created by Robert Vicino, President of Robert Keith & Co., Inc., engineered by consultants Geiger Berger Associates, P.C., rigged by Lime Waterproofing., Inc. King Kong and the Empire State Building have been partners since 1933, when the landmark film was released.
Kissing:
Static electricity buildup is so mammoth on top of the Building that, under the right conditions, if you stick your hand through the observatory fence, St. Elmo's fire will stream from your fingertips. Lovers who kiss up there may find their lips crackling with electric sparks.
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