Powers Building, 16 Main Street West, Rochester, Monroe County, NY

Significance: Architecturally innovative for its day due to its scale and metal structural system, has been the keystone of Rochester's downtown commercial area since its construction in 1869-70. It was acclaimed as the first fire-proof structure in Rochester and at the time the only building west of New York City equipped with elevators. The building stands as a monument to the Horatio Alger character of its owner, Daniel Powers. Its multiple mansard roofs and tower raised twice in four years reflect Power's determination to own Rochester's tallest building, the dream of his life.
Survey number: HABS NY-5649
Building/structure dates: 1869 Initial Construction
Building/structure dates: 1872 Subsequent Work
Building/structure dates: 1874 Subsequent Work