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by RhythmBoy on November 3rd, 2006

RhythmBoy

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What's the origin of the term "downtown"?

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  • by johnosteen on October 29th, 2010

    johnosteen

    The 'down' in downtown wasn't derived from the habit of referring to higher elevated land as up and lower elevations as down, though there may be a few instances of such.

    Downtown is essentially an American term, which arose to prominence in the 20th century. It emanates from New York City, the city most identified with skyscrapers (tall buildings), which became iconic symbols for city centers and business districts.

    New York City developed on Manhattan Island, which has largely a north/south linear orientation. It grew from the southern tip northward, and with it came directional references of uptown and downtown. The residential areas moved farther north as the older parts of the city developed into a commercial center. 'Down' town became the commercial and business sector of the city.

    As New York City prospered and, literally, bulged in the early 20th century its 'down' town skyline was presented over and over again to Americans, who didn't readily observe the meaning of 'down' when reading the captions and stories accompanying the photographs. 'Down' and town simply became a one word big city term which other cities were quick to confer upon their own city centers and business districts.

    By the latter part of the 20th century, even small towns had come to view the term as applicable to their main street business area.

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  • by Joe-Speedy on November 3rd, 2006

    Joe-Speedy

    In the early years, all settlements were built beside the water in the lowlands. As the town grew, the settlers were forced uphill and inland to build their homes. The old city was down-hill from most of the settlers and the new city was uphill. Going "down to town" became downtown.

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