A dark secret behind the windowless 29-story skyscraper in New York has piqued the curiosity of locals and internet sleuths alike. Known for its eerie and foreboding appearance, 33 Thomas Street has been the subject of numerous theories and speculations. But what goes on behind those windowless walls? Let's delve into the mystery of this ominous skyscraper.

The curiosity surrounding 33 Thomas Street gained significant traction when actor Tom Hanks tweeted a photo of the building in 2017, calling it the "scariest building I've ever seen!" His tweet sparked widespread speculation and intrigue about the building's purpose.

TikToker Eric Guidry (@e.guidry) provided some much-needed clarification. In a viral clip, he explained that 33 Thomas Street is part of AT&T's long lines network. This network was essential before digital telephony, connecting phone lines physically to switching hubs. These hubs, built primarily in the 1970s, did not require natural light, hence the absence of windows.

Before the advent of digital telephony, the communication infrastructure relied heavily on physical connections. Long-distance calls were routed through a network of switching hubs that connected phone lines across vast distances.

These switching hubs were not just buildings; they were massive structures designed to handle enormous volumes of calls. Constructed during the mid-20th century, these buildings were equipped with the technology needed to manage and route calls effectively, underscoring the scale of AT&T's telephony operation.

The windowless design of buildings like 33 Thomas Street was intentional. The machinery inside did not require natural light, and windows could compromise the building's security. Additionally, the lack of windows helped maintain a controlled environment for the sensitive equipment.

Similar windowless buildings can be found in other major cities, such as San Francisco, Chicago, and Austin. These structures were not just buildings but strategic components of AT&T's network, designed to create secure, efficient hubs for their telephony operations, highlighting the company's commitment to maintaining a reliable communication network.

Photo: Wikimedia Commons/Marcin Wichary

33 Thomas Street is renowned for its unyielding security features. The building is fortified to sustain operations independently for a staggering two weeks, with ample reserves of gas, water, and electricity. It's a fortress designed to withstand even the most severe external threats, including a nuclear blast, instilling a sense of security in its occupants and the public.

The building's ability to operate autonomously highlights its importance in the communication network. These self-sufficiency measures ensure that critical infrastructure remains operational during emergencies.

While digital technology has largely replaced the original telephony equipment, the building remains a critical part of network and internet infrastructure. It plays a vital role in maintaining the connectivity that modern society relies on.

Today, data passing through 33 Thomas Street includes internet traffic, making it an essential node in the broader communications network. If you're streaming a video or making an online call, your data is likely routed through this building.

Among the many theories about 33 Thomas Street, one of the most persistent is its alleged use as a surveillance site by the National Security Agency (NSA). In 2016, The Intercept published an investigation suggesting that the building, codenamed TITANPOINTE, was used for surveillance activities.

Leaked documents from NSA whistleblower Edward Snowden provided compelling evidence supporting this theory. According to these documents, the building housed equipment to monitor communications between the US and other countries.

Beyond the NSA allegations, 33 Thomas Street has been the subject of even wilder theories, including claims of it being a hideout for aliens or a headquarters for vampires and lizard people. While these theories are far-fetched, they underscore the building's mysterious allure.

The enigmatic nature of 33 Thomas Street has made it a popular topic on social media. Tom Hanks' tweet and Eric Guidry's TikTok video are just a few examples of how the building has captured the public imagination.

The enigmatic, windowless skyscraper at 33 Thomas Street continues to be a source of fascination and speculation. Whether it's a relic of a bygone era of telephony or a hub of modern surveillance, its ominous presence in New York's skyline is undeniable. The theories and stories that surround it, while we may never know the full extent of what goes on behind those walls, will keep the mystery alive, piquing the curiosity of the public for years to come.