Hall of Fame for Great Americans | Bronx

The Hall of Fame for Great Americans is an open-air colonnade located on the campus of Bronx Community College in New York City.

Visual Characteristics

This landmark is a semicircular granite colonnade featuring 100 pedestals, 98 of which hold bronze portrait busts of notable Americans. The structure is approximately 600 feet long and 15 feet wide, with a height of about 20 feet. It is designed in a Neoclassical architectural style.

Location & Access Logistics

The Hall of Fame is situated at 2155 University Avenue, Bronx, NY 10453. It is approximately 10 miles north of Midtown Manhattan. Access is via the Major Deegan Expressway (I-87) North, exiting at Fordham Road. Parking is available on the Bronx Community College campus, with specific visitor parking areas indicated. Public transport options include the Bx1, Bx2, Bx10, Bx11, Bx13, Bx15, Bx17, Bx19, Bx20, Bx21, Bx22, Bx24, Bx28, Bx32, Bx35, Bx36, Bx38, Bx40, Bx41, Bx42, BxM3, BxM4, and BxM18 bus lines, as well as the 4 train to the Fordham Road station, followed by a short bus ride or walk.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The Hall of Fame was conceived by Senator Elihu Root and designed by architect Stanford White. Construction began in 1900 and was completed in 1901, with subsequent additions. Its original purpose was to honor Americans who had achieved distinction in various fields of endeavor.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can observe the bronze busts of individuals selected for their contributions to American history and culture. The colonnade itself offers a shaded walkway for contemplation. Educational materials are available at the Hall of Fame Museum, located within the adjacent Gould Memorial Library.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available within the Gould Memorial Library. Limited shaded areas are provided by the colonnade's roof. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available on campus. Food vendors are not typically present directly at the Hall of Fame, but dining options exist within the college or in the surrounding Bronx neighborhoods.

Best Time to Visit

The best time of day for photography is generally mid-morning or late afternoon to avoid harsh shadows on the busts. The most pleasant months for visiting are April through October, when outdoor conditions are favorable. No specific tide requirements apply.

Facts & Legends

The selection process for inductees is overseen by a board of electors. Initially, only deceased individuals were eligible, but this rule was later amended. A unique aspect is the inclusion of figures from diverse fields, from inventors and artists to military leaders and educators.

Nearby Landmarks

• Fordham University (0.8km Southwest)
• Arthur Avenue Retail Market (1.5km South)
• Bronx Museum of Art (3.2km Southeast)
• Orchard Beach (4.5km East)
• New York Botanical Garden (2.1km East)