Surrogate's Court (Hall of Records)

History and architecture

The Surrogate's Court was designed in the French Classic Eclectic Style and is a fine example of civic architecture at the turn of the Century. Representative of a period when the Municipality of New York felt itself coming of age, this imposing building with its towering Mansard roof typifies what was then considered the best in architecture. Both within and without, it was intended to set an example and to elevate standards of design and construction throughout the City.

This building displays rich materials, elaborate details, carving and sculpture. Here was shown an awakening interest in the fine arts, as applied to buildings, which was destined to have far reaching effects not only on civic structures but on mercantile and commercial buildings as well.

In a letter to the commission, the Hon. Joseph A. Cox and the Hon. S. Samuel DiFalco, Surrogates of the County of New York, endorsed the proposed designation, Among their comments were the following: "This building for more than a half century has played an important role In the government of New York City.... This eight story structure of classic design has a particularly beautiful exterior and interior. The facade of this imposing structure is graced by columns and fine statuary, depicting important historical figures........

Replacement at today's costs would be prohibitive, if not impossible........This public building is one of the finest examples of governmental architecture of New York at the early part of this century. It would serve the aesthetic interests of this City to preserve this structure as an example of the architecture of its time. It may be utilized to advantage in its present condition."