The Flatiron Building, located at 175 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY, has been a iconic landmark since its completion in 1902. One of the most enduring myths surrounding the building is the claim that strong winds can lift up to 23 skirts at once. But what actually happens when winds hit the Flatiron? To uncover the truth, we spoke with local police officers who have shared their oral histories of the building. According to Officer James, who has been stationed in the area for over 10 years, "the wind can get pretty strong around the Flatiron, but I've never seen it lift 23 skirts at once. Maybe a few, but not that many." We also visited the former Windy City Red Hots, a hot dog restaurant that was located just across the street from the Flatiron. Although the restaurant is now closed, we were able to speak with the former owner, who recalled the windy days and how they would affect business. "It was always a challenge to keep the doors open on windy days, but we loved the energy it brought to the area," he said. So, what actually happens when winds hit the Flatiron? While the myth of 23 skirts may be exaggerated, the building's unique design and location do make it prone to strong winds. On a typical day, the wind speed around the Flatiron can reach up to 20-30 mph, which is relatively strong compared to other areas of the city. However, it's worth noting that the building's design, with its narrow triangular shape and rounded edges, helps to reduce the impact of the wind. Additionally, the surrounding streets and buildings help to disrupt the wind flow, reducing the overall wind speed. In conclusion, while the 23 skirts myth may be an entertaining story, it's not entirely based on fact. The Flatiron Building's unique design and location do make it prone to strong winds, but the impact is not as dramatic as the myth suggests. Whether you're a local or just visiting, the Flatiron Building is still an iconic landmark worth exploring, and its rich history and cultural significance make it a must-see destination in New York City.

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History / 3 min read
The 23 Skirts Myth: What Actually Happened When Winds Hit the Flatiron
Uncover the truth behind the 23 skirts myth and the impact of strong winds on the Flatiron Building, as told through police officer oral histories and a visit to the former Windy City Red Hots.