From pornos to Elmos. This post actually doubles as a history of outdoor advertising.
1898
Here's the intersection of Broadway and 42nd Street back when it was known as Longacre Square.
Getty Images Hulton Archive
1904
This photo was taken shortly after the Times Tower was built and the intersection became known as Times Square. That's the Astor Hotel on the right.
Getty Images FPG
1916
You can see the New Amsterdam Theater on the left and the Rialto on the right.
Getty Images Edwin Levick
1921
Times Square as seen from 45th Street. The Times Square we know today is taking shape around this time. Those are street car tracks in the foreground.
Getty Images Edwin Levick
