Greycoats - Foshay

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FOSHAY draws inspiration from the first skyscraper west of the Mississippi, the Foshay Tower, and the man behind the spire.

In his younger years, Wilbur Foshay was an art student with a fond appreciation for the Washington monument. "It is beautiful, but with windows it would be useful." He made his fortune buying public utilities and selling the stocks, using his money to fulfill a lifelong dream.

Completing the tower in 1929, Foshay invited 25,000 guests to an elaborate three-day dedication ceremony. Cabinet members, senators and congressman received all-expenses paid trips. Half-nude dancers entertained. The military gave 19-gun salutes. Each guest received a gold pocket watch. John Philips Sousa conducted music, including a march he wrote just for the occasion.

Two months later, Sousa's $20,000 check bounced. The market crashed. Foshay lost everything. Including the towe