Looking down Washington Ave in 1888
The NYS Capitol & Plaza Instagram account posted this pic the other day. It's from 1888.
We were struck by how some things about the view down Washington Ave are exactly the same -- and others less so. The current version of Albany City Hall is about five years old in this photo. And, of course, the Capitol is there.
But the streetscapes leading up to those landmarks feel so much more close and tightly packed than they are today.
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Does anyone know the name for the style of roof on the building on the left (with the bay window & awning)? There are several examples in Center Square, is it Dutch inspired?
... said -B on Nov 14, 2017 at 11:21 AM | link
@ B - It is called a Mansard roof but I am unsure of the origins. At least the name will help you research it if you want!
... said Kaitlyn on Nov 14, 2017 at 11:44 AM | link
I believe it is called a Mansard Roof.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mansard_roof
... said Melanie on Nov 14, 2017 at 11:46 AM | link
That section of Washington Avenue has both gained and lost...
... said Joe Fusco on Nov 14, 2017 at 11:53 AM | link
The style of home is called French Second Empire. It has a lot of crossover with the Italianate that directly preceded it, the main difference being the steep mansard style roof.
... said BethAM on Nov 14, 2017 at 12:09 PM | link
I was recently looking through the photo collections in the Albany Institute library and there are many pictures of the various businesses that lined these blocks before the old State Education Building and, later, West Capitol Park were built.
They're so interesting to look at. Some are so clear and detailed you can see people in upstairs windows or read signs on store doors.
One picture (in the always amazing Albany....The Way It Was Flickr albums) is especially fascinating - a very pretty young woman standing in front of a confectioner's shop.
https://flic.kr/p/X2sCrn
... said Paula on Nov 14, 2017 at 1:04 PM | link
Hotel Borthwick on the right - I have the owner's walking stick.
... said Eric Scheirer Stott on Nov 14, 2017 at 1:26 PM | link
So much better-looking in those days.
... said Brian on Nov 14, 2017 at 3:07 PM | link
Well now that Vampire Weekend song makes more sense. Thanks all!
... said -B on Nov 14, 2017 at 4:02 PM | link