In the 1930's, the "New Deal" was good to Allentown. Our park system was enriched by monumental stone construction under the WPA. We also received one of the architectural gems of our area, the magnificent art deco post office. Constructed during 1933-34, no detail was spared in making the lobby an ageless classic. The floor is adorned with handmade Mercer tiles from Doylestown. Muralist Gifford Reynolds Beal worked thru 1939 portraying the Valley's cultural and industrial history.
Unfortunately for history and culture, this architectural gem is now being targeted for NIZ private/public enrichment. Several architectural treasures were demolished for the arena, along with Allentown's mercantile history. The Postal Service has signed off on the building, and the developer is chomping at the bit. The real tragedy is that the other new buildings are not even full, but with private construction being funded by taxpayers, there is no need to worry about such details as occupancy rates. Efforts to save this irreplaceable building may start and end on this blog. The Morning Call, itself a partner in the NIZ, has taken a back seat on such matters.
The 83 year old photograph, part of my private collection, is the contractor's documentation of the project's progress. The back of the photo states; Taken Sept 1 - 34 showing lobby, floor, screens, desks, completed & fixtures hung
thats a damn shame,,,,,thanks for reporting,,,
ReplyDeleteThe Morning Call no longer has a real interest in Allentown. They print their paper in Jersey, lease out most of the building to tenants, so you are correct - they don't take a stand.
ReplyDeletebartee@7:44, actually the morning call sold the building to the NIZ's primary developer, J.B. Reilly, and now is a tenant themselves in part of their former building.
ReplyDeleteMike,
ReplyDeleteLet's face it, this historic building no longer fits in with the new "let's make Allentown look like every other downtown" look. One might as well be driving through Omaha Nebraska on Hamilton Street.
Joined the U.S. Navy there in 1973 and worked with the FBI in the 1980's while still there. A grand old building with many memories there.
ReplyDeleteFight for it!
ReplyDeleteAnyone know when the social security office lease is up with Abe at 4th and hamilton. Then theres the welfare office on walnut. Maybe have to get a little creative here and think ahead. Where there is will there is a way.
ReplyDelete