❤️ Ticket sales benefit The Brooklyn Greenway Initiative!
“Unusual and terrific!” – Leigh H., New York
On September 4, 1882, Thomas Edison flipped the switch on the world’s first electric grid—right here in Lower Manhattan. This electrifying tour and history talk traces how that moment sparked a global revolution, transforming NYC’s gas-lit streets into glittering thoroughfares of skyscrapers illuminated by electric lights. You’ll follow in the footsteps of a young Nikola Tesla, who arrived in 1884 to work for Edison. Dive into the drama that caused Tesla to shockingly break away from Edison and create his own electric innovations. We’ll explore how electricity helped NYC reach new heights as elevators made it possible for buildings and people to rise higher than ever before. It’s a tour of brilliant minds, bold ideas, and the literal power that built the city.
Rich Miller was previously NYC Energy Policy Chief (1998-2003) and recently retired as Vice-President for Energy and Environmental Law at Con Edison. He has authored articles on New York City’s significant role in the early history of electricity.
100% refund up to 24 hours prior to the start of your tour.
When canceled less than 24 hours before the start of your tour, we will do our best to reschedule you or issue you a credit to use on any of our upcoming tours. This credit won’t expire until you use it!
The group meets at the southwest corner of Pearl and Fulton Streets in Lower
Manhattan.
By Subway: A, C, J, Z, 2, 3, 4, and 5 to Fulton Center then 5 minute walk
How long is the tour?
This tour is 2 hours long.
Where does this tour end?
It ends at the Beaver Building at the corner of Wall, Beaver, and Pearl Streets.
How strenuous is this tour?
This tour is easy and most people can participate.
Is this tour ADA accessible?
Yes, it is! You can email us at [email protected] in order for us to best prepare your visit.
Is this tour mostly indoors or outdoors?
This tour is mostly outdoors.
