Countless 1980s masterpieces begin at a shopping mall. These massive icons of youth culture are so beloved in the United States that they've become a story trope, but there was indeed a time when malls were unbeknownst to many. That is, until one of the first shopping malls in America opened in Cleveland, Ohio. We know it as the Old Arcade today, but this massive structure dazzled visitors when it was first unveiled.
From the outside, the Arcade looks just like any other old skyscraper in Cleveland.
Back in the day, architecture in Cleveland tended toward the creative side. The Arcade in Downtown Cleveland consists of two nine-story structures connected by a five story arcade, which is something like an indoor street lined with shops.
However, its interior drips with opulence and hints at a storied past.
And storied it is! When it first opened its doors in 1890, it was completed at just under $1 million dollars. With inflation, that would have cost more than $26 million today. As it was modeled after the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II in Milan, Old World architecture and luxurious elements were taken into account as it was designed by by John Eisenmann and George H. Smith.
Just its shape alone hints at its architectural genius.
If it seems that no expense was spared during the Arcade's construction, then you've hit the nail on the head. Some of the biggest names in Cleveland at the time, including John D. Rockefeller and Charles Brush, the inventor of the arc lamp streetlight, helped fund its construction. With an expanse stretching from Superior Avenue to Euclid Avenue, construction was quite the undertaking.
Everywhere the eye falls, fine and elegant features decorate the antique space.
These delicate features mask more staggering architectural elements. For example, as Superior and Euclid are not parallel roads, the seemingly straight passage actually arcs at a 23-degree angle. Interestingly, the two entrances aren't even level. The Euclid Avenue entrance is about 12 feet higher than the Superior doors, but the quality of the building's design masks these oddities.
However, just as the city has, the Cleveland Arcade has evolved to keep up with the times.
Over the years, renovations have been required to maintain the old space, and modern features have been added as time marches on. Some things, like the Superior Avenue entrance, have remained largely untouched since the structure's unveiling. The Euclid Avenue entrance, on the other hand, was remodeled in 1939, and the skylight was replaced in 2001.
For generations now, visits to this Cleveland landmark have continued to be a cherished way to usher in the holidays.
During the height of Cleveland's department store era, trips downtown were a family affair. For many, the Cleveland Arcade was a must-see destination on each and every trip. To this day, holidays are particularly memorable at the local landmark. St. Patrick's Day alone is unforgettable!
Despite its obvious age, the building boasts a certain timelessness.
Despite being one of the very first indoor shopping centers in the nation, this National Historic Landmark manages to feel modern in its purpose. To this day, shops line its interior and draw visitors.
And just like other arcades around the world, its skylight continues to make the space feel a bit like an indoor street.
At over 300 feet in length, the Arcade's massive skylight remains its crown jewel. With 1,800 glass panes comprising its length, this feature is truly stunning.
Walking through these storied halls, Clevelanders find themselves coming face-to-face with the city's storied past.
It's undeniable that history has taken place in the Arcade. In 1895, the Republican National League hosted its annual meeting here and set the stage for Governor William McKinley's presidential nomination just one year later. This structure saw the birth of the Cleveland Museum of Art, iconic sports teams, and entire families of Clevelanders.
And history continues to be made in the space to this very day.
From first dates to marriages, history continues to be made at this space.
While it may not seem to be quite in the vein of shopping malls, the Old Arcade is the ancestor of today's shopping centers. As one of the first shopping malls in America, it truly has earned its place in Cleveland history and legend.
Love Cleveland history? Explore the Old Arcade's younger sister structures at the 5th Street Arcades, or get adventurous and see what attractions hide nearby in Downtown Cleveland
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