After laying it's first cornerstone in 1858, construction on St. Patricks Cathedralin midtown Manhattan lasted decades due mostly to the Civil War. Upon completion in 1879, it dominated over the relatively small structures which surrounded the area at that time, as evidenced by this photo.

Just a short 15 years after St. Patricks Cathedral's dedication, an established photographer by the name of John S. Johnston captured it in all of it's glory, shown here complete with a horse drawn carriage and a few distant pedestrians.

The Brooklyn Bridge is a prominent feature in many photos of New York City. It's almost come to visually represent the city which is ironic because many people really didn't like it at first. In fact they were scared of it. I'm going to tell you the story behind the bridge that involves a strange sickness a series of deaths a stampede and a bunch of elephants.

Step back in time with a visit to Jamaica, Queens, and the historic home of Rufus King. King was a Founding Father, a framer and signer of the U.S. Constitution, a U.S. Senator, and an early voice in the anti-slavery movement. He bought this Georgian home in 1805 where he and his family lived for over three generations. The house and some first-floor interior spaces are New York City designated landmarks. It is also a National Historic Landmark. Today, King Manor is part of the City’s Historic House Trust and features rotating exhibits, City history, and community events.