ManhattanLife Celebrates 175 Years.
From our New York headquarters building in 1850 to the Houston Corporate Office in 2025, ManhattanLife has greatly evolved over time. We were the first insurance company to issue an Accident & Accidental Death policy to a woman and the first to issue a Group policy. In 1864, we began incorporating incontestability clauses into our policies, which eventually became law. Then in 1892, due to significant business growth, we commissioned one of America’s first skyscrapers, just before the automobile made its way onto roads. While we’ve witnessed a lot of history, we’ve made some history ourselves. This year, ManhattanLife is making more history as we reach the company’s 175th anniversary!
A Humble Start (1850)
Bringing a Vision to Life
Imagine New York City on May 29, 1850—unpaved streets, bustling pedestrians, and horse-drawn carriages weaving through traffic. Against this backdrop, L.S. Chatfield, Attorney General for New York, approved The Manhattan Life Insurance Company to commence operations.
However, the early days were modest—no office, no officers, and no employees, just a dream. By August 1, 1850, the company had officially opened at 108 Broadway, with Christopher Y. Wemple, its first Secretary, securing the company’s very first policy: $2,000 on his own life.
Early Insurance Offerings (1850s)
Policyholders could select from:
• Ordinary Life (with or without profits)
• Single Premium Life (with profits)
• Endowment at 50
• Endowment at 60
• Joint Lives
• Annuities
Strong Ambition (1860s–1890s)
Pioneering the Industry
ManhattanLife has a long history of pioneering innovations in the insurance industry. It was the first company to issue an Accident & Accidental Death policy to a woman and the first to introduce Group insurance, providing coverage to sailors aboard the record-setting vessel Sea Witch. In 1864, the company introduced incontestability clauses, a groundbreaking policy feature that was later adopted as law.
Resilience During The Civil War (1861–1865)
Despite the hardships of war, The Manhattan Life remained steadfast in its commitments to policyholders. The company honored all claims for those who passed away during the war and allowed lapsed policies to be reinstated without requiring a medical examination. This unwavering integrity earned Manhattan Life the nickname “The Old Reliable,” a phrase frequently mentioned in policyholder correspondence.
Reaching New Heights
With business booming, one of America’s first skyscrapers was commissioned—an 18-story building on Broadway, symbolizing the company’s success just before the dawn of the automobile era. The building was completed in 1894.
Wisdom and War (1900s–1930s)
Adapting to Global Change
With the onset of World War I in 1914, The Manhattan Life swiftly adapted to the changing landscape. As U.S. troops entered the war between 1917 and 1918, the company demonstrated its commitment to policyholders by issuing premium refunds for war-risk coverage, ensuring continued support during uncertain times.
Strength Through Hardship
During the Great Depression (1929–1939), The Manhattan Life not only endured the economic downturn but also played a vital role in supporting the industry by acquiring mortgages from another life insurance company to help it meet cash requirements. Despite challenges of the era, the company reached a record $101 million in insurance in force by 1930. In 1935, to boost morale and encourage excellence, Manhattan Life introduced the Halsey Cup, a competitive sales trophy awarded to top-performing agencies.
Renewed Promise (1940s–1950s)
Supporting the War Effort
During World War II, The Manhattan Life played a vital role in supporting the war effort and the economy. Employees sold an impressive $11 million in Victory Bonds, demonstrating their commitment to the nation. By 1946, the company’s insurance in force had grown to $150 million—equivalent to approximately $2.4 billion today—reflecting its resilience and continued expansion during a time of global uncertainty.
Celebrating 100 Years
By the 1950s, the U.S. was experiencing economic prosperity. To mark its 100-year anniversary, The Manhattan Life hosted a black-tie gala at the Waldorf Astoria, attended by 235 guests, including employees dressed in 1850s fashion. Each guest received an 1850 penny, a symbolic reminder of how far the company had come.