Heaviest Corner Plaque Traditional Cache

Yes, you may remember this corner from a previous cache. I always wanted the cache to be at the actual plaque, but couldn't due to the 528' rule. So here's your chance to come see the "Corner" again, but from a slightly different perspective! This side is a little more muggle-prone, but shouldn't be too hard. To account for signal bounce (you are on a corner with 4 10- to 20-story buildings), see the hint for a full solve. Remember, this cache is in an urban environment, so please be aware of your surroundings at all times.

plaque (and cache) are located along the north-western side of 20th St N, next to the Empire Building

The “Heaviest Corner on Earth” isn’t really the heaviest corner on earth of course. But it is a striking tribute to Birmingham’s miraculous growth in the early 1900s. And it is an important legacy from the city’s formative years.

The Heaviest Corner on Earth refers to a grouping of four early skyscrapers anchoring the intersection of 20th Street and First Avenue North in the heart of downtown. The structures heralded Birmingham’s coming of age at the turn of the century when the smokestacks of heavy industry belched the soot and grime of prosperity.

From 1903 to 1913, seven skyscrapers sprang up in the flourishing downtown district. Four at the main intersection created a striking cluster and set the scale for their successors. The towering giants were monstrous in comparison to the delicate 19th century buildings along First Avenue. The residents of Birmingham were sure the dominance of the soaring structures made the intersection the “heaviest corner on earth.” And they proudly proclaimed it so.

Southeast Corner: John Hand Building, 20 floors, completed 1912
Northwest Corner: Empire Building, 16 floors, completed 1909
Northeast Corner: Brown Marx Building, 16 floors, completed 1908
Southwest Corner: Woodward Building, 10 floors, completed 1902

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