Store History

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Here's a look at the history behind the space that houses Century 21, New Yorkers' favorite store to complain about, find bargains at, and then complain about some more. Lost City writes that Century 21 is set up "in a collection of really old buildings." The Germania Building on the store's east side was erected during the Civil War for $40,000, while 12 Cortlandt Street, where the shoe store resides, has been around since the 1880s. In 1936, 12 Cortland's mezzanine was a "busheling room." According to The Free Dictionary, "busheling" means "fixing or mending clothing," so it maybe Century 21 hasn't changed that much since the Great Depression after all. [Lost City; The Free Dictionary]

Century 21 - Lower Manhattan

22 Cortlandt Street, New York, NY 10007 Visit Website