While suffering continually today at the hands of urban renewal, cast-iron architecture in New York with its gleaming panes of glass and freshly painted facades were the pride of the city. Well-known photographer Edmund V. Gillon has wandered the streets of lower Manhattan and photographed countless examples from numerous aspects and angles, in detail and from a distance. From there each plate has been carefully researched – identifying architect, foundry, date built, location, and delineating the history of the building. Together these plates and commentaries provide one of the most comprehensive statements on cast iron ever compiled. This book is sure to be loved by those with an appreciation for cast iron buildings, as well as for the city and its development.