Saks Fifth Avenue Designed by Starrett & van Vleck Photo by David Shankbone

Lord & Taylor opens their flagship Fifth Ave store in New York City. Founded in 1826, Lord & Taylor is the oldest luxury department store in North America and is a subsidiary of the oldest commercial corporation in North America, the Hudson’s Bay Company, itself founded in 1670.

The building was designed by Starrett & van Vleck which specialized in the design of department stores in the early 20th century.  The store is the first of many renowned 5th Avenue retailers that would soon include the likes of Saks 5th Avenue, FAO Schwarz, Bergdorf Goodman and many other luxury brands.