Opened in 1902, it’s 87 feet in width on the 22nd Street side & less than 7 feet wide at its narrowest point on 23rd Street
The Final Jeopardy clue for Wednesday, July 23, 2025, fell under the category “Famous Buildings.” Contestants were asked to identify a building described as being 87 feet wide on the 22nd Street side and narrowing to less than 7 feet at its slimmest point on 23rd Street.
What is the Flatiron Building?
This clue referenced one of New York City’s most distinctive architectural icons. The Flatiron Building, located at 175 Fifth Avenue in Manhattan, is renowned for its triangular shape and slender profile. Built in 1902, it was originally called the Fuller Building, named after the founder of the Fuller Company which financed its construction. However, the public quickly adopted the nickname “Flatiron” due to the building’s resemblance to a cast-iron clothes iron.
A New York Icon Known for Its Shape
The Flatiron Building’s unique footprint is due to the triangular plot of land where Broadway and Fifth Avenue intersect at 23rd Street. Designed by architect Daniel Burnham, the building rises 22 stories and was considered one of the city’s first skyscrapers. Its steel-frame construction allowed for the slender and daring design, which was unconventional for the time.
The width measurements mentioned in the clue highlight this extreme design. The 87-foot span along 22nd Street allows for more traditional floor layouts, while the acute angle at the north end results in a width of less than 7 feet on the 23rd Street side. This tapering form gives the building its signature look and has made it a popular subject in photographs and film for over a century.
Engineering Marvel in Its Time
At the time of its completion, the Flatiron Building pushed the limits of architecture and engineering. The steel skeleton not only supported its unusual shape but also helped it withstand the fierce winds at the junction of Broadway and Fifth Avenue. While early critics questioned whether it would remain standing, the building has endured for well over a hundred years.
Its construction also marked a significant point in the evolution of urban architecture. Burnham’s design borrowed elements from Beaux-Arts and Renaissance Revival styles, combining classic detailing with modern building techniques. This made the Flatiron one of the most recognizable and admired buildings in the United States.
Cultural and Historic Significance
Over the decades, the Flatiron Building has become a symbol of New York City. It was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1989 and remains one of the most photographed buildings in the world. It has also been featured in countless works of art, from postcards and magazine covers to films and television shows.
Though it originally served as an office building, its purpose has evolved over the years. As of recent years, the Flatiron Building has undergone renovations and changes in ownership, continuing to serve as a prime example of early 20th-century innovation and design.
A Perfect Fit for Final Jeopardy
The July 23 Final Jeopardy clue challenged contestants to consider geography, architecture, and historical significance. The precise width measurements were a key hint, pointing to the narrowest commercial building of its era. Those familiar with Manhattan’s urban landscape or iconic architecture likely recognized the Flatiron Building immediately.
This clue not only tested knowledge of facts but also visual memory and an understanding of how buildings can reflect both the spirit of a city and the advances of their time. With its distinctive shape and enduring legacy, the Flatiron Building remains a fitting and memorable answer in the “Famous Buildings” category.