May 22, 2025 • F.W. Woolworth Co.
During the interior demolition at the F.W. Woolworth Co. building, crews discovered an entirely unexpected feature—a fully welded steel vault on the west side of the first floor. Constructed from 3/4-inch steel panels and completely enclosed, the vault likely served as secure storage during earlier uses of the building.
Due to the vault’s substantial construction, it could not be removed in one piece. This meticulous process required precision and skill, ensuring safety while minimizing disruption to the surrounding structure. Specialized steel contractors spent three full days carefully cutting the vault into manageable sections.
The vault’s removal is a reminder that restoring historic spaces often means adapting to unexpected complexities hidden beneath the surface.
Learn more about the full restoration plan for the F.W. Woolworth Co. building.
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