American Bank Note Company’s printing plant serves as an example of early 20th century industrial architecture. On February 5, 2008, Landmarks voted to designate the America Banknote Company printing plant. Constructed in 1911 by architecture firm Kirby Petite & Green, the Round Arch-style plant includes Gothic details and a nine-story tower with a crenellated parapet. The plant printed bank notes, stocks, bonds, checks, and possibly dollar bills, until it closed in 1984.

At the public hearing on January 15th, the current owner of the plant, Taconic Investment Partners, testified in support of designation and stated its desire to develop the plant while respecting its historical architecture. 5 CityLand 14 (Feb. 15, 2008). (more…)

Owners of former engraving plant welcome landmark designation. Landmarks heard testimony on the possible designation of the American Bank Note Company Printing Plant on January 15, 2008. The architects of the plant, Kirby Petit & Green, also designed the American Bank Note Company’s Manhattan offices on Broad Street, which the City designated as a landmark in 1997.

The plant’s design emphasizes security as well as aesthetics, with only one entrance along the over 1,500 feet of street frontage to limit access. A Gothic tower rises above the plant, and large round arch windows provide light to its interior. For over 75 years, the American Bank Note Company produced bank notes, stocks, bonds, and other engraved products, including possibly dollar bills, at the plant. (more…)