Endicott Demolition: Original 100-Year-Old IBM Logo is History

One month into the methodical removal of several crumbling IBM-Endicott buildings, a key symbol of the company's early history is gone.

The Art Deco-style "International Business Machines" logo was introduced in 1924. One of the older buildings at what often is called IBM's "birthplace" had featured the logo for several decades.

But that logo has vanished as demolition crews from Gorick Construction move west in tearing down five structures that are part of the "Old Building Group" along North Street.

Some local historians and people with past connections to IBM had hoped that the logo might somehow be salvaged. But Chris Pelto, who oversees the property for Phoenix Investors, said it wasn't feasible to save it.

Before the company changed its name to International Business Machines just over a century ago, it was known as the Computing-Tabulating-Recording Company.

According to IBM, the name change was made to mirror company president Thomas J. Watson Sr. "global ambitions."

Watson got rid of the "ornate, rococo letters" of the old CTR logo in favor of more modern iconography.

As explained on the IBM website:

The words “Business Machines” were written in a simple, sans serif font in the shape of a globe with the word “International” belted around the middle. The Art Deco style expressed an affinity and admiration for modernity and machines — values that aligned with IBM's vision.

The massive Endicott demolition project began on December 31. It's expected to be completed by early summer.

Broome County economic development officials have said they hope the availability of a "shovel-ready" site where the unused buildings had stood will attract additional jobs to the property IBM sold in 2002.

WNBF NEWS VIDEO: A visit to the North Street site on February 3, 2025.

BONUS WNBF NEWS VIDEO: A final look before that important symbol came tumbling down on January 31, 2025.

Enter your number to get our free mobile app

Contact WNBF News reporter Bob Joseph: Email bob@wnbf.com or call (607) 545-2250. For breaking news and updates on developing stories, follow @BinghamtonNow on Twitter.