Across the Buffalo Metro Rail from Lafayette Square, the Liberty Building at 420 Main Street raises its 23 stories in front of you. Built in 1925, this 23 story office tower is a striking example of neoclassical architecture. At the time of its completion it was the largest office building in downtown Buffalo, erected as the headquarters for Liberty National Bank.
Liberty National Bank began as the German American Bank; after World War I the name was changed to remove any connection to that war’s main enemy. To illustrate the bank’s new image, the building was christened in 1925 with three replicas of the Statue of Liberty sculpted by Leo Lentelli. All three statues continue to remain in the building.
Two of the 36 foot figures stand on the roof — one facing west and the other facing east — a deliberate nod to Buffalo’s strategic location on the Great Lakes. A third statue was placed over the Main Street entrance and was later moved to the Court Street entrance; the statues are illuminated at night. An addition designed by Lyman & Associates was completed in 1961.
Picture the three Statue of Liberty replicas watching from here — two on the roof and one above the Court Street entrance.