Manhattan: Two Toynbee Tiles Spotted in Midtown

"Toynbee Tiles" and their lore came to my attention while we lived in St. Louis, where they were, at one time, numerous. I believe these are originals.

Googling the phenomenon will bring up lists of where they have been found, speculation as to the identity of "Toynbee", and some evidence that others, more recent, were not placed by the originator but by copycats.

I came across these, both at intersections, after several years of totally not thinking about them at all. I wasn't looking for them, at least not consciously.

Often they disappear not because of wear but when the city repaves the street or subterranean work requires digging up the pavement.

These each measure maybe 18 inches by 12 inches.