This is a magnetic nano cache, log-only, please bring your own
writing utensil. Please only sign your initials to save room on the
logsheet. Remember, this cache is in an urban environment, so
please be aware of your surroundings at all times.
plaque located along the western side of 20th St N, next to
Colonial Bank
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.
credit
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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*1/23/07, container changed, smaller than before but in the same
location.