From 1833 to 1966, The Metropolitan Opera House that once stood here served as the seat of Guilded Age society who would mingle among the international stars who would perform here. This opera house would also could serve as a venue for political causes. A week after The Triangle Factory Fire, Rose Schneiderman preformed a now-famous rallying speech in memory of the lost workers.

The beloved building was ordered to be torn down when the Opera moved to Lincoln Center so that no rivaling company could open here.