Manhattan · NYC landmark
William J. Syms Operating Theater
400 West 59th Street · Manhattan, New York City
A former surgical teaching theater shows how hospitals sought cleaner operating conditions.
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NYFE Summary
Roosevelt Hospital used this building for operations and surgical teaching. Surgeon Charles McBurney helped shape an amphitheater where students could watch procedures. Skylights brought in light, and washable surfaces supported the hospital’s efforts to reduce infection.
The red-brick front has round arches and a copper-roofed corner feature. An inscription names the operating theater. Surgery ended here in 1941, and later hospital alterations removed the original amphitheater arrangement.
NYFE summary from the official history and visitor sources linked below.
Plan a visit
Check the operator’s current opening, admission and access information before travelling. Historic status does not guarantee public access to every interior.
Official visitor information ↗