1930
After five years of planning, Frenchman Charles Pierre Casalasco's dream to build the world's most elegant hotel comes true. Backed by Walter P. Chrysler, E.F. Hutton, and a group of influential New Yorkers, The Pierre opens its doors on October 1, 1930.
The world changes almost overnight. The Great Depression, Prohibition and speakeasies mark the end of the Gilded Age, ushering in the new Café Society. Bond holders take over and ask Charles Pierre to stay on as Managing Director. His first task - transforming his hotel into a playground for this new creative class.