I never knew why they call it "The Great White Way." Well, it turns out that back in 1880, a section of Broadway in the theater district was illuminated by Brush arc lamps, which must have been stunning back then. It was one of the first electrically lighted streets in the United States. Broadway, by the way, was also the oldest north-south main thoroughfare in Manhattan. So that's what came to mind when I shot this photo last night - that I didn't have a clue why they call it that. Now we are all just a bit smarter!
Friday, March 20, 2009
The Great White Way
I never knew why they call it "The Great White Way." Well, it turns out that back in 1880, a section of Broadway in the theater district was illuminated by Brush arc lamps, which must have been stunning back then. It was one of the first electrically lighted streets in the United States. Broadway, by the way, was also the oldest north-south main thoroughfare in Manhattan. So that's what came to mind when I shot this photo last night - that I didn't have a clue why they call it that. Now we are all just a bit smarter!
I learn so much from you, your photos and research. Thanks.
ReplyDeleteJoan