Thompson Street is a one-way street in the borough of Manhattan, running north-south through the neighbourhoods of SoHo and Greenwich Village. The road is named after William Thompson, a wealthy landowner and politician who lived in New York in the early 19th century. Thompson was born in England in 1775 and immigrated to the United States in 1790. He eventually became a successful merchant, investing in shipping and real estate.

Thompson also had a distinguished political career, serving as a member of the New York State Assembly from 1811 to 1813 and the U.S. House of Representatives from 1813 to 1817. During his time in Congress, he was an advocate for the interests of New York City and played a crucial role in securing funding for the construction of the Erie Canal.

Thompson was also a significant landowner in the area that is now Greenwich Village, and his estate included much of the land where Thompson Street now runs. When the street was officially laid out in the early 19th century, it was named in honour of William Thompson in recognition of his contributions to the city and the nation.

Today, Thompson Street is known for its charming architecture, historic buildings, and trendy shops and restaurants. It has several famous landmarks and attractions, including the former home of writer Edgar Allan Poe at 85 West 3rd Street, the historic Judson Memorial Church at 55 Washington Square South, and the Thompson Street Playground at the corner of Thompson and Canal Streets. The street has also been featured in several movies, TV shows, and literary works, including the popular 1990s TV series "Friends," where the fictional coffee shop "Central Perk" was located on the corner of Thompson and Houston Streets.