New York State proudly stands as America’s second-largest apple producer, trailing only Washington state. However, the iconic nickname for New York City, “The Big Apple,” has absolutely nothing to do with the state’s thriving fruit orchards. The moniker’s origins are much more colorful and deeply rooted in the world of horseracing.
The phrase “Big Apple” first gained traction around 1920, thanks to the insightful reporting of John Fitz Gerald, a sportswriter for a New York City newspaper. Fitz Gerald, who diligently covered horse racing events, overheard African-American stable hands in New Orleans using the term “the big apple” to refer to New York City. For these racing professionals, New York City represented the pinnacle of their sport, home to the most prestigious and lucrative racetracks – the “big time” venues. Intrigued by this vibrant slang, Fitz Gerald adopted “Big Apple” in his columns, popularizing the nickname among his readership and beyond.
During the 1930s, the term “Big Apple” transcended the horseracing world and found a new home within the burgeoning jazz music scene. Jazz musicians embraced the nickname to signify New York City’s status as the epicenter of big-league music clubs and opportunities. To play in New York was to reach the “Big Apple” of the music industry, a place where dreams were made and careers took off.
Interestingly, the nickname’s popularity waned over time, nearly fading into obscurity until its revival in the early 1970s. In an effort to revitalize New York City’s image, which was then grappling with economic difficulties and rising crime rates, a clever tourism campaign was launched. Charles Gillett, the president of the New York Convention and Visitors Bureau and a jazz aficionado, recognized the nostalgic charm and positive connotations associated with the “Big Apple” nickname. He spearheaded an advertising campaign that reintroduced and amplified the moniker.
This time, the “Big Apple” nickname truly stuck. Promotional materials like pins, T-shirts, and posters featuring apples flooded the city, inviting tourists to “take a bite out of the Big Apple.” The campaign successfully rebranded New York City, associating it with energy, excitement, and opportunity, solidifying “The Big Apple” as its enduring and beloved nickname.
Before its “Big Apple” era, and even before it was known as New York City, the metropolis was briefly called “New Orange.” In 1673, during a period of Dutch control, New York was renamed New Orange in honor of William III of Orange. However, this name was short-lived, as the city reverted to English rule and its former name, New York, the following year. Despite this brief interlude, it’s the “Big Apple” that has captured the world’s imagination, becoming synonymous with the vibrant and dynamic city of New York.
