James Bogardus Factory

Described as "the first complete cast-iron edifice ever erected" by its designer and manufacturer James Bogardus, this 4-story factory on Duane Street was composed of cast-iron members. The walls, floors, and interior columns were prefabricated, making the building an important precursor to metal-framed skyscrapers.^[1] 

The first complete cast-iron building in America. In 1848 he began work on his own cast-iron-fronted factory, at Centre and Duane Streets (which is no longer standing). Even before it was finished, he began getting commissions.