New York City debuts The Beam at Rockefeller Centre as tribute to iconic Lunch Atop a Skyscraper photo

The Beam is a thrilling new attraction at Rockefeller Centre's Top of the Rock observation point that promises visitors an opportunity to step into history and recreate the iconic 1932 photograph "Lunch Atop a Skyscraper." 

What

The daring experience invites guests to sit atop a steel beam, 12 feet above the deck, mimicking the fearless iron workers who casually enjoyed lunch during the construction of 30 Rockefeller Plaza.

There’s a new fun ride at the Top of the Rock in Rockefeller Center, New York City, called “The Beam” ✨. You recreate the iconic classic photo of the construction workers sitting on the steel beam. Would you do this? pic.twitter.com/wbqDMeRwYo

— NewYorkCityKopp (@KellyrKopp) November 30, 2023

• The famous photograph, initially titled "Builders of The City Enjoy Luncheon" and later known as "Lunch Atop a Skyscraper," captured 11 ironworkers casually dining on a steel beam 850 feet above the ground. 
• The image, published in The New York Herald-Tribune on October 2, 1932, has become one of the most recognizable photos of the 20th century.

Interestingly, the location and details about the subjects remained a mystery for many years. 

Initially thought to be associated with the Empire State Building, the photograph was later identified as a publicity shot taken during the construction of the 69th floor of Rockefeller Center's RCA Building, now known as 30 Rock.

Recreate the legendary “Lunch Atop a Skyscraper” photograph at Top of the Rock's newest experience, The Beam, opening tomorrow, December 1 🌆

Swipe left for a sneak peek, then book your tickets now: https://t.co/kZ6jMjeAqx pic.twitter.com/wKDW0vJVuO

— Rockefeller Center (@rockcenternyc) November 30, 2023

• The Men at Lunch documentary, produced by Irish filmmakers Seán Ó Cualáín and Éamonn, played a crucial role in unraveling the mystery surrounding the photograph. 
• Discovered in a small pub in Ireland, a copy of the photo with a note from a local emigrant led the filmmakers on a quest to identify the individuals in the image. 

Charles Ebbets, Who Took The Famous Photograph Lunch Atop a NYC Skyscraper. 1930s. pic.twitter.com/v90TlvmpXF

— niloc1406195 Colin President Elect 😜😜😂😂 (@niloc14061952) November 27, 2023

• With the assistance of Rockefeller Center's archivist, Christine Roussel, they managed to identify two of the men: Joe Curtis and Joseph Eckner.
• Despite facing challenges in obtaining records from the Rockefeller construction era, the filmmakers connected with descendants of the workers, including Pat Glynn, whose father was believed to be one of the men on the beam.

The way we used to be... pic.twitter.com/TWD5k9ZkeK

— Magnus_Man (@Magnus_Man_03) December 1, 2023

So The Beam attraction not only allows visitors to relive this iconic moment in history but also pays homage to the multicultural workforce that shaped the modern skyline of New York City. As guests buckle up for an exhilarating ascent, they are not just enjoying breathtaking views of Central Park but also becoming part of a living tribute to the builders of the city. 

Tickets for The Beam, starting at $40, provide an immersive experience that combines history, thrill, and a unique perspective on the vibrant blend of the Big Apple's construction heritage.