Ever wonder how the New Year's Eve ball drop became a tradition in New York City? According to The Atlantic, the tradition dates back to 1897:  "The crowds came from every section of the city, and among the thousands, who cheered or tooted tin horns, as the chimes were rung out on the night, were many from New Jersey, Long Island, and even Staten Island."

See photo's of the balls changing with the times and technology here.