A regular reader here will tell you in my time living in the Philadelphia area for 25 years, and even further back having visited Philly since a wee one, I have a fond connection to the Wanamaker Department Store Building, and going to many times to mention, to hear one of the world's largest pipe organs in concert. It was a sad day when the store folded, but then Macy's moved in. Back in March, everything was in question, when Macy's announced they were shuttering the store, leaving the magnificent building, the organ and all its history dating back to 1911, in limbo. A month later New York developer TF Cornerstone won the complete control of the historic place in an auction, which was good news as they are known for adapting historic structures. And looks like some of my ideas I was hoping for will win out. The main atrium and organ will remain intact, while the surrounding areas will feature art exhibits, and galleries, and many music concerts will also take place, and also many drag shows. One already took place with Philly's own Sapphira Cristal, who brought the house down with an operatic performance. With the building void of racks of merchandise, the acoustics are now phenomenal. After that, there have been a few more concerts, and the last organ concert and Christmas Light Show will take place this holiday season, before the building closes and will undergo a 2-year renovation. But once opened again, there will be the art galleries and exhibitions, the music concert venue, eateries and a restaurant on what were the main floors. I understand there also may be a bit of retail. The upper floors will be become offices and educational spaces, and above those 600 loft style apartments are planned, all the while keeping the infamous Greek and Egyptian Halls, and the Crystal Tea Room, still going forward for event space. A win win you ask me. I understand talks are also in full swing with the symphony and Philly Opera to have a few performances with the organ. When I was down in Philly last, I met my ex-boss for lunch, who is on the board of the Friends of the Wanamaker Organ, so he has access to the building. We went over and the building looks even more opulent without everything in it! Though it did seem odd to see it empty.
So kids, it looks like the Eagle, and "Meet me at the Eagle" will rise again!!!!
Glad to hear of this happy outcome!
ReplyDeleteThank heavens right? It was a no brainer to incorporate art and music in the space I though. I also thought I heard there could also be a small museum space as a history of the building and Wanamaker's with news and artifacts from its long-storied history. Don't know where that ended up at.
DeleteFantastic building - so pleased it's been saved. Jx
ReplyDeleteQualifies as a 'Gosh!'.
DeleteYou have no idea the relief you two.
DeleteGreat news! The empty space is magnificent. Let’s meet at the Eagle.
ReplyDeleteFirst time the building has been empty it's since opening.
DeleteDarling Mistress,
ReplyDeleteIt is so wonderful to know that this magnificent building will, once again, rise from the ashes. It is a most intriguing collection of architectural styles and one can imagine that it will be a perfectly fabulous home to concerts and galleries as well as more commercial enterprises. It would be just the place we can imagine dancing the light fantastic at a tea dance. Yippee.
Over the years it has had some fabulous classical concerts. And when that organ plays it is literally building shaking. I believe there are over 35,000 pipes to the organ. My first visit ever was with my grandmother as a wee tyke. We took in the train, to go shopping. We entered, and I can still recall my jaw dropped. Christmas was especially magical there.
DeleteI saw this in the papers here and was overjoyed!!! The best plan really and tying in music should have been a no brainer your right. But other art and culture is brilliant and a good plan for this magnificent building. I'm sure John Wanamaker would approve. Your picture of the empty space are amazing. The eagle, I dare say, looks at peace.
ReplyDeleteWOW! Amazing looking empty. I think the whole city is happy mostly with the plan. And the Philadelphia Orchestra has had a long history with the organ and space, so we are overjoyed.
ReplyDeleteMy, you have a very large organ!
ReplyDelete