Vintage Photograph from 1930 Shows Construction Worker on Edge of Empire State Building

Workman, perched on the end of a beam, bolting together the framework of the Empire State Building, New York City, 1930. Photograph by Lewis Hine
Workman, perched on the end of a beam, bolting together the framework of the Empire State Building, New York City, 1930. Photograph by Lewis Hine

The U.S. National Archives and Records Administration has a great digital collection titled American Cities which "depicts the city, its development, and its people and their way of life from the early 19th century to recent times."

This photograph from the American Cities series (archive #518290) features a fantastic shot of a workman piecing together steel beams while balancing on the edge of the under-construction Empire State Building. The Chrysler Building dominates the background.

Matt Coneybeare

Matt Coneybeare

Editor in Chief

Matt enjoys exploring the City's with his partner and son. He is an avid marathon runner, and spends most of his time eating, running, and working on cool stuff.

Something wrong with this post? Let us know!

Brought To You By…