Our History + Journey to 100

Eliot and John Cross, connected to New York’s elite, founded Cross and Cross in 1906. Eliot, a Harvard graduate, managed business, while John, trained at Yale and the École des Beaux-Arts, led design. Their firm, favored by old New York, also partnered in real estate ventures near Grand Central. Notable works include the General Electric Building and Tiffany & Co. on Fifth Avenue.

The Barclay’s opening was a discreet affair—a private dinner-dance for New York’s old-money elite, with minimal publicity to maintain its exclusive image. No ribbon-cuttings or celebrity fanfare, just word-of-mouth prestige. Demand surged so quickly that 100 additional rooms were converted within weeks, cementing the hotel’s success.

As New York City expanded in the 20th century, Midtown emerged as a hub for business and residential growth, driving demand for hotels catering to rail travelers. Advances in construction enabled building over the tracks, transforming entire blocks into prime real estate. This development led to the creation of a tree-lined meridian with benches and winding paths—giving rise to what the New York Central Railroad aptly named Park Avenue.

Perle Mesta, a prominent 20th-century socialite, occupied an entire floor at The Barclay. Wealthy from family and marital inheritances, she became famous in the 1950s as the “Hostess With The Mostess.” Her legendary gatherings drew notable guests, including Presidents Harry S. Truman and Dwight D. Eisenhower.

The Barclay remained independent until the 1960s when its popularity began to wane. In the 1970s, InterContinental acquired the hotel, investing over $30 million in a grand renovation that revitalized its image and cemented its place within the brand’s portfolio.

In 1996, Bill Clinton used The Barclay as his New York campaign headquarters during his re-election bid, continuing a tradition from 1992.

In 2009, under General Manager Hervé Houdré, The Barclay launched its green sustainability initiative. The hotel introduced a locally sourced, organic power breakfast buffet, implemented a Global Enviro composting machine to reduce food waste, and encouraged water conservation with bee-shaped reminders for sheet washing. These efforts remain in place, with ongoing sustainability innovations.

Established as Manhattan’s premier luxury hotel in 1926, InterContinental New York Barclay is honored to approach its 100th anniversary. Our three-year countdown began on November 4, 2023, marking the launch of our Journey to 100 campaign.

We invite past and present guests to share their #MyBarclay stories at mybarclay@ihg.com or, if visiting, request a hard copy telegram at the front desk. We will cherish these memories and select 100 standout submissions to be part of our centennial celebration in 2026.