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Rockefeller Center through the 1930s
“Don’t give the people what they want,” said S.L. “Roxy”
Rothafel, the man who created Radio City Music Hall.
“Give ’em something better.” Throughout the 1930s,
Rockefeller Center steadily improved, including some
accidental innovations like the Christmas Tree tradition in
1931 and the skating rink in 1936. By 1939, more than
125,000 people were visiting Rockefeller Center daily; on
its own, it would have been the 51st largest city in the U.S.
1930: Construction of the “city within a city” begins,
employing over 75,000 people.
1933: Following the completion of 30 Rockefeller Center
in May, Rockefeller Plaza opens for business.
1934: The Rainbow Room opens on the 65th fl oor of 30
Rock; Noel Coward is among the fi rst patrons.
1935: More than 2,100 people are using the Rockefeller
Center post offi ce every day.
1936: The skating rink opens just in time for Christmas.
1937: A “sports garden” is created on the roof of the
Radio City Music Hall for the use of the Rockettes,
the orchestra and other staff members.
1938: The Associated Press Building, at 50 Rockefeller
Plaza, is the fi rst Plaza building to operate
profi tably the year it opens.
1939: John D. Rockefeller Jr. drives “The Last Rivet” at
a ceremony marking completion of the Center’s
original buildings.
Rockefeller Center was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1989.
(Wikimedia Commons)
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