The Bowery Boys: New York City History

#451 The New Yorker Magazine: Talk of the Town for 100 Years

8 snips
Feb 28, 2025
Julie Golia and Julie Carlson, curators at the New York Public Library, discuss the centennial of The New Yorker magazine. They share insights on its glamorous origins linked to the Algonquin Round Table and its transformation through the decades. The duo highlights Eustace Tilly, the magazine's iconic mascot, and explorations of early contributors' impact. Listeners will also discover how the publication has adapted to changing media landscapes while maintaining its unique voice and style throughout a storied history.
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ANECDOTE

The New Yorker's Origins

  • Harold Ross and Jane Grant, married journalists, conceived The New Yorker.
  • Inspired by European magazines and the Algonquin Round Table's wit, they aimed for a sophisticated, metropolitan audience.
INSIGHT

Jane Grant's Impact

  • Jane Grant, a skilled journalist and performer, played a crucial role in The New Yorker's founding, securing funding and pushing Ross.
  • Even after their divorce, she significantly contributed behind the scenes, demonstrating the impact of lesser-known figures.
ANECDOTE

Bold Beginnings

  • The New Yorker's prospectus boldly declared its sophisticated, exclusive nature, rejecting mainstream appeal.
  • Despite early struggles and rejections, its unique tone and visual identity, spearheaded by Ray Irvin, set it apart.
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