First crossword clue
Who
New York World
What
first
Where
United States (New York)
When

The first crossword clue appeared in the US newspaper, New York World, on 21 December 1913. The puzzle lacked a 1-across and so the first clue was placed at 2-across. The clue was “What bargain hunters enjoy”. The answer? “Sales.”

[NB Alternatively, the 1-down clue is “To govern”. Answer “Rule”.]