The Not-So-Square History of Times Square: From Horseless Carriages to Glittering Lights ✨
Times Square! The crossroads of the world, the city that never sleeps, the place where dreams are made of (and overpriced hot dogs are sold). But have you ever stopped to wonder, amidst the flashing billboards and throngs of tourists, what exactly is Times Square named after?
Prepare to be amazed (or mildly entertained at the least) because the answer is... The New York Times!
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That's right, the newspaper that keeps you informed about everything from world politics to your neighbor's cat stuck in a tree (true story, maybe) used to have its headquarters smack dab in the middle of this dazzling circus. Back in 1904, when Times Square was just a wee little Longacre Square (named after a carriage-making district in London, how quaint!), The New York Times decided to build their new digs, the Times Building (now known as One Times Square), right there.
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Now, The New York Times wasn't exactly shy about their new digs. They wanted everyone to know they were the hippest, most happening newspaper joint in town. So, they convinced the city muckety-mucks to rename the whole area Times Square. And thus, a legend was born (although, the legend might involve a lot more neon and a lot less ink these days).
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But wait, there's more! The story doesn't end there. The New York Times actually moved out of Times Square in 1913. But by then, the name had stuck like glitter on a tourist's shirt. One Times Square is now most famous for its New Year's Eve Ball Drop, a tradition that started in 1907 (way before they invented disco balls, thank goodness).
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So, the next time you find yourself dodging costumed Elmo impersonators in Times Square, remember, it's all thanks to a newspaper that just really wanted everyone to know they had a fancy new building.
**## Times Square Trivia Time! **
- Did you know that Times Square wasn't always a tourist hotspot? In the late 1800s, it had a bit of a... rough reputation.
- The very first electric advertisement appeared in Times Square in 1904, just three weeks after it was renamed! We guess some things never change.
**## How to Times Square Like a Pro: **
1. How to dodge selfie sticks? This is a tricky one. Maybe develop a Ninja-like sense of awareness?
2. How to find a decent bathroom? Good luck, soldier.
3. How to score a cheap hot dog? There's no such thing. But hey, the experience is priceless... right?
4. How to take a good picture? Patience, grasshopper. And maybe bring a wide-angle lens.
5. How to have fun? Just embrace the chaos! Let the bright lights and the energy wash over you.
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