Architecture

After 13 months of construction, the Empire State Building opened in New York City on May 1, 1931.  It was the tallest building in the world for nearly 40 years.  Despite being surpassed in height by several other buildings, it’s one of America’s most iconic buildings, hosting millions of tourists ever year.

On February 23, 1857, a group of 13 architects met in New York City and discussed founding an organization to “promote the scientific and practical perfection of its members.”  That organization became the American Institute of Architects.

On December 8, 1831, White House architect James Hoban died in Washington, DC.

On February 21, 1885, the Washington Monument was dedicated, 37 years after its cornerstone was laid.

Realist painter Edward Hopper was born on July 22, 1882, in Upper Nyack, New York.

Architect Frank Lloyd Wright was born Frank Lincoln Wright on June 8, 1867, in Richland Center, Wisconsin.

On June 4, 1979, the USPS issued the first block of four stamps in the American Architecture Series, which honors the evolution of American architecture over the last two centuries.

On May 28, 1937, the Golden Gate Bridge officially opened to traffic.

On April 26, 1990, the USPS issued the first booklet in its Lighthouse stamp series.