NYC Tour Guide Practice Test

What was the former name of Times Square and why did it change?

1. Union Square, due to labor movements

2. Longacre Square, when a subway station was built nearby

3. Herald Square, after a popular newspaper

4. Broadway Square, to reflect the nearby theaters

The correct answer is: Longacre Square, when a subway station was built nearby

The correct answer is B. Longacre Square was the former name of what we now know as Times Square. The name was changed to Times Square in 1904 when The New York Times newspaper moved its headquarters to the newly built Times Building, now known as One Times Square. This name change not only reflected the presence of The New York Times but also helped in promoting the area as a major commercial and entertainment hub in New York City. Option A is incorrect because Union Square is a different area in Manhattan known for its historical significance in labor movements and civic gatherings. Option C is incorrect as Herald Square is another distinct area in Manhattan known for the presence of the New York Herald newspaper and as a shopping district. Option D is incorrect as there is no historical record of Times Square being named Broadway Square to reflect the nearby theaters, even though Broadway is a prominent feature in the area.