UPDATE: Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani will be sworn in on January 1, 2024, at the historic Old City Hall subway station in New York City. This extraordinary ceremony marks a significant moment as Mamdani becomes the city’s first Muslim mayor and the youngest mayor since 1892, at just 34 years old.
The Old City Hall station, originally opened in 1904 and closed in 1945, will momentarily come back to life beneath its stunning tiled arches during this private swearing-in ceremony. Known for its ornate design by renowned architect Rafael Guastavino, the station is not typically open to the public, accessible only via guided tours organized by the New York Transit Museum.
In a heartfelt statement, Mamdani described the station as “a physical monument to a city that dared to be both beautiful and build great things that would transform working peoples’ lives.” Following the intimate swearing-in, Mamdani will participate in a public inauguration outside City Hall, making the day even more historic.
The Old City Hall subway station is a piece of New York City’s rich history. It was among the city’s first 28 subway stations and features unique elements such as vaulted tile archways and skylights. Tours of the station are limited, with tickets costing $50 and memberships for the New York Transit Museum starting at $65.
The station’s closure was partly due to safety concerns stemming from the gap between the trains and the platform, which became problematic as subway cars grew longer. Nevertheless, the station remains a testament to the city’s architectural legacy, with its original signage and design elements still intact.
Mamdani’s inauguration is not just a personal milestone; it represents a broader change in leadership and diversity within New York City. As the city gears up for this momentous occasion, anticipation builds for Mamdani’s vision and plans for the future.
As January 1 approaches, all eyes will be on the Old City Hall subway station, a site of both historical significance and a symbol of new beginnings under Mamdani’s leadership. This unique ceremony promises to resonate with New Yorkers and beyond, highlighting the transformative power of the city’s rich history and the leaders who shape its future.
