The Bowery Boys: New York City History #237 Columbus Circle: A Century of Controversy
Sep 15, 2017
Columbus Circle is a fascinating blend of history and modernity. Once farmland, it transformed into a bustling hub thanks to the Italian-American community’s influence. Architectural debates raged over the New York Coliseum, showcasing a clash of design philosophies. The lively theater scene and controversies surrounding the Columbus statue highlight its cultural significance. As urban planning evolved, the area became more pedestrian-friendly, sparking discussions about its legacy and the future of its iconic monument.
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Columbus Statue Funding
- The 1892 Columbus statue wasn't city-funded; Italian-Americans and Il Progresso readers paid for it.
- Its dedication drew 10,000, including representatives from the US, Italy, France, Spain, and Portugal.
First Traffic Circle
- Columbus Circle's traffic chaos in the early 20th century, with no traffic laws, led to an innovation.
- William Phelps Eno, the "father of traffic control," created the world's first traffic circle there in 1905.
Entertainment Hub
- Columbus Circle briefly rivaled Broadway as a theater hub, hosting the debut of "Wizard of Oz" and "Babes in Toyland."
- It later became a nightlife hotspot with Reisenweber's Cafe, featuring Sophie Tucker and early jazz music.
