Macy’s To Close Historic Philadelphia Store in 150-Store Shutdown

Macy's Center City at 1300 Market Street is closing down. This shutdown is part of a bigger plan to close 150 stores across the country over the next three years. The store, located in the historic Wanamaker Building, became a National Historic Landmark in 1978.

"It's a sad day for Philadelphia," said Councilmember Mark Squilla to 6ABC.

The company is closing 66 locations right away. The Exton Square Mall store in Chester County is among them. After these changes, roughly 350 stores will remain open.

This building holds special meaning in American history. President William Howard Taft came to its opening ceremony in 1911. The impressive building stands 12 stories tall, with three basement levels and penthouses on top.

"The closure is not an ending but a new beginning for the Wanamaker building and Market East," said Alba Martinez, Philadelphia's Director of Commerce.

Two famous features will stay put. The amazing Wanamaker Organ - the world's largest working pipe organ with 28,000 pipes - and a beautiful bronze eagle statue will stay protected by the city's Historical Commission.

The building's significance shows in its recognition. It was first added to the Philadelphia Register of Historic Places in 1973. Then it became a National Historic Landmark. Its design changed how department stores were built across America.

Important events took place here. President Woodrow Wilson held his 1917 inaugural ball in the building. Every year, people came to see the beautiful holiday displays in the main court.

The city is already thinking about what comes next. Jesse Lawrence, who's in charge of Planning and Development, is focusing on safety while they figure out new uses for the building.