The Encyclopedia of New York is
definitely the place to start, but
as I recall there is a typo in either
the date or the name of one of the
tallest buildings in succession.  Sorry
I don't have my notes here to say which
one and I think it is self-evident,
but just keep an eye out for it.

You should look at entries for each
building and the entry on skyscrapers
in general.  You might also try
contacting Carol Willis of Columbia
who has started a Musuem of the
Skyscraper.  I don't know whether
the museum has a phone number and
I believe she adjuncts in the architecture
school at Columbia.

Nancy Robertson