What is the origin of the idiom "Skid Row" and when to use it?

The idiom "Skid Row" originated in the late 19th century in the United States. It was initially associated with areas in cities where logging companies would use skids (long wooden planks) to transport logs downhill to mills or shipping areas. These areas often developed near waterfronts or industrial zones. Over time, the term "Skid Row" took on a broader meaning and came to refer to areas characterized by poverty, homelessness, and social issues.