The Pacific Gallery (formerly the Island Steel Factory) was built in 1889 when the country grew at the fastest rate in it's history almost doubling in size from 5 to 9.8 million. Isla Maria Cleofas was the only island where large factories were aloud and an American company founded the Island Steel Factory to supply the growing demands of the country. The huge clock in the front is the largest in the Western Hemisphere and rung at 7:00 a.m. to call hundreds of poor people to start their jobs as steel makers.
The building ran from 1889-1948 when America Metal closed down due to bankruptcy. Since the factory was in great condition, the government bought the property and turned it into the National Steel Factory. It was open for 21 years (closed in 1969) until one day a machine exploded in the North wing of the building creating a huge gap in the tower, releasing tons of harmful chemicals into the air, and creating a huge decrease of steel during the late 60's boom.
In 1998 the building was chosen to be demolished and make way for a new, large, and ugly museum which would become the countries largest museum. The plan was never approved and instead the old building was remodeled and finally open in 2006.
The huge hole in the North wing was covered in a glass atrium which turned the building into a huge attraction, bringing people from Europe, Asia, and all over the Americas for the grand opening. Three unknown presidents attended the grand opening as well as the U.S, Mexican, and Brazilian president. Of course the Islas Marias president bought the first ticket ever sold.
The large patio between the North & South wing used to be a shipping center where truckloads of steel and metals would leave the factory everyday. Now, it is a huge public patio where people can take a lunch break, appreciate the beautiful architecture of the building, or just relax in the 80 degree weather.
There are 3 main floors in the building. Since the building was originally a steel & metal factory, the roofs were high and needed almost no change when the building was turned into the museum.