vi, 283, [5] pp. 8vo. Includes frontispiece from a drawing by Ruyl, photographic plates, a history of the first of two sites -- this work was published four years before the original building was demolished to make way for the Empire State Building. The Waldorf-Astoria was built in two stages in 1893, and made a name as one of the best luxury hotels in the world. Proprietor George Boldt was an innovative businessman, and introduced ideas revolutionary to the hospitality industry, such as room service, complete electricity, private bathrooms, telephones in every room, managers for each floor, etc. Boldt's efforts transformed the role of hotels, establishing them as centers for social activities, and destinations for luxury vacations. Illustrations throughout, including images of George Boldt, the funeral procession of Ulysses S. Grant, President Harding departing the hotel, and General 'Black Jack' Pershing viewing the victory parade from the hotel balcony.
