The Transformation of Longacre Square: How Times Square Got Its Name

Times Square, the bustling hub of New York City, is a recognized landmark worldwide. However, many might not know that it was once known as Longacre Square. This article explores the history behind the name change, the significance of The New York Times' move, and the impact that the subway had on the area.

Introduction to Longacre Square

Before the name change in 1904, Times Square was called Longacre Square. The name reflected the early days of the area, where Long Acre, a district in London, inspired the naming of the square. In the late 1880s, Long Acre Square, or Longacre, was a large open space surrounded by drab apartments. Electric street lights and theatrical advertisements began to transform the public space into a safer, more inviting environment. This transformation helped pave the way for further developments in the area.

The Rise of the Interborough Rapid Transit System (IRT)

The rapid increase in foot traffic in Longacre was spurred by the construction of New York's first rapid transit system, the Interborough Rapid Transit Company (IRT). The IRT opened in 1904, significantly increasing the area's commercial and entertainment value. The subway lines, including the 1, 2, 3, 7, A, C, and more, became the backbone of the area's transportation, allowing New Yorkers unprecedented mobility throughout the city.

The New York Times and Times Building

A transformative event that ultimately led to the name change was the move of The New York Times to Longacre. Adolph S. Ochs, the owner and publisher of The New York Times from 1896 to 1935, saw an opportunity for the newspaper and the neighborhood. Ochs selected a highly visible location to build the Times Tower, which was the second tallest building in New York at the time, situated between Broadway and Seventh Avenue and 42nd and 43rd Streets.

The groundbreaking move by The New York Times occurred in January 1905. The previous spring, Mayor George B. McClellan signed a resolution renaming the intersection of Broadway and Seventh Avenue from Long Acre Square to Times Square. This rebranding coincided with the opening of the subway station at 42nd Street, significantly boosting the area's commercial and entertainment importance.

Conclusion

The transformation of Longacre Square to Times Square is a testament to the power of branding and urban development. The move by The New York Times and the introduction of the subway system played crucial roles in changing the face of the area, solidifying its position as one of New York City's most iconic and bustling locations.

Keywords: Times Square, Longacre Square, New York Times, IRT, subway, commercial center, entertainment hub