15 WALL STREET BETWEEN NASSAU AND WILLIAM STREETS, NEW YORK CITY, NEW YORK
The Second Branch Bank of the United States stands as a testament to the architectural mastery of Martin Euclid Thompson (1786 – 1877), a renowned figure in the nineteenth-century New York City scene, celebrated for his expertise in the Greek Revival architectural style.
Crafted from marble in 1822-24, this iconic structure adorned the north side of Wall Street, nestled between Nassau and William Streets. While Thompson’s signature Greek influences are evident in the elegant ionic capitals and cornice mouldings, the overall façade predominantly echoes the traditional mid-eighteenth-century English Palladian style, a striking fusion of classicism and refinement.
In the 1850s, the building underwent a transformation, reborn as the United States Assay Office. Here, precious metals, including gold and silver, were meticulously analyzed to ascertain their purity and worth. Despite its eventual demolition in 1915, the façade endured, meticulously preserved as a testament to its architectural significance.
By 1924, the façade found new life at the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s American Wing, a poignant relocation that ensured its enduring legacy. Today, it stands proudly, welcoming museum visitors and serving as a cherished backdrop for countless photographs. Within the American Wing, visitors are transported through time, exploring curated period rooms that offer glimpses into the rich tapestry of early American history. For architectural historians and enthusiasts alike, these preserved spaces are a captivating must-see, inviting reflection on the enduring beauty and legacy of American design.
