Little Old New York
"Little Old New York" is an affectionate term for the city. I couldn't find the term before the song (circa 1898).
22 August 1898, New York Times, pg. 6:
And, just incidentally, little old New York performed her part of the ceremony rather well, all things considered.
15 August 1899, New York Times, pg. 7:
Pete Dalley's parodies, especially the one on "Trelawny of the Wells," are very catching, and John T. Kelly's "Little Old New York Is Good Enough for Me" retains its popularity.
22 August 1898, New York Times, pg. 6:
And, just incidentally, little old New York performed her part of the ceremony rather well, all things considered.
15 August 1899, New York Times, pg. 7:
Pete Dalley's parodies, especially the one on "Trelawny of the Wells," are very catching, and John T. Kelly's "Little Old New York Is Good Enough for Me" retains its popularity.