Union Square Park, Independence Flagstaff

Photograph shows Independence Flagstaff in Union Square Park from above, looking south toward Fourth Avenue and Broadway. Photo by Angelo Rizzuto (1906-1967), dated September 1952. Source: Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division.

In 1928-1929, the park was excavated for the subway and then it was renovated. The Independence Flagstaff, also known as the Charles F. Murphy Memorial Flagpole, was dedicated on July 4, 1930. It was designed by Anthony de Francisci to celebrate the the 150th anniversary of the signing of the United States Declaration of Independence.

The old Union Square Hotel is on the southeast corner of E 15th Street. Ohrbach's Coats can be seen in the background at 14th Street.

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