Why Newark Looked Way Better in the 1870s

Video Description

Long before Newark had a modern skyline, a bizarre and imposing tower stood at the city’s crossroads. The Firemen’s Insurance Building was once considered Newark’s first true skyscraper—an extravagant blend of Victorian excess, experimental proportions, and a silhouette that locals described as equal parts commanding and grotesque. For decades, it watched over the famed Four Corners intersection before vanishing entirely from the landscape. In this episode, we uncover the dramatic rise and fall of the Firemen’s Insurance Tower—its mysterious origins, its role in shaping Newark’s early identity, and why it became both admired and mocked in equal measure. From the city’s Puritan roots to its explosive industrial growth, we trace how Newark built upward long before glass high-rises defined American skylines…and why this strange tower ultimately disappeared without a trace. Join us as we explore Newark’s lost skyscraper, the myths surrounding it, and what its demolition reveals about America’s evolving architectural tastes. #history #Newark #skyscraper Support the Channel by becoming a member 👉 https://youtube.com/channel/UCzIZ8HrzDgc-pNQDUG6avBA/join IT’S HISTORY - Weekly Tales of American Urban Decay as presented by your host Ryan Socash. https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL2NN2rktA4yMZ4vmNaA3KpsS5KXLj3xVN » Subscribe: https://youtube.com/@ITSHISTORY?sub_confirmation=1 » Listen podcasts: https://ffm.bio/itshistory » CONTACT For brands, agencies, and sponsorships: [email protected] Click here to book a sponsorship with me http://thoughtleaders.io/reserve/its-history » DISCLAIMER Some media elements in this video are used under the fair use provisions of U.S. copyright law (Title 17, Section 107) for purposes of commentary, criticism, and education. If you believe your image or content was used in a way that violates your rights, please contact us at [email protected] » CREDIT Scriptwriter - Ryan Socash Editor - Karolina Szwata Host - Ryan Socash » NOTICE Some images may be used for illustrative purposes only - always reflecting the accurate time frame and content. Events of factual error / mispronounced word/spelling mistakes - retractions will be published in this section.