In American history, it’s not unusual to hear about cities being renamed as they evolve, often reflecting shifts in culture, identity, and politics. From honoring historical figures to popular natural geographical features, renaming cities has been a dynamic process across the United States. Some may be surprised that the cities we know and love today had completely different names.
Truth or Consequences, NM (Originally Hot Springs, NM)
In 1950, the small resort town of Hot Springs, NM, did something unusual. It changed its name to Truth or Consequences to celebrate the 10th anniversary of a popular game show. This change added a quirky touch to the town’s history.
Phoenix, AZ (Originally Swilling’s Mill, Helling Mill, Mill City)
Phoenix’s history traces back to Swilling’s Mill, evolving through Helling Mill and Mill City. In 1868, inspired by Indigenous ruins, the city officially became Phoenix, symbolizing renewal and strength.
Atlanta, GA (Originally Canebreak, Terminus, Deanville, Thrasherville)
Atlanta’s name journey is like a captivating novel, transitioning through Canebreak, Terminus, Deanville, and Thrasherville. In 1847, it officially became Atlanta, honoring Martha Atalanta Lumpkin and marking its rise as a cultural hub.
Cincinnati, OH (Originally Losantiville)
Once called Losantiville near the Licking River, Cincinnati emerged in 1790 after Gen. Arthur St. Clair disliked the name. His decree: “Call it Cincinnati!” The city flourished along the Ohio River.
Kalamazoo, MI (Originally Bronson)
Kalamazoo shed the name Bronson in 1836, rooted in Native American legends. Its meaning ranges from a “boiling pot” to a “mirage,” reflecting diverse cultural influences in the region.
Orlando, FL (Originally Jernigan)
Emerging from the Seminole Wars, Jernigan became Orlando in 1856. The city’s name origin remains mysterious, with possibilities from Shakespearean characters to fallen soldiers, adding layers to its past.
San Francisco, CA (Originally Yerba Buena)
Initially Yerba Buena, meaning “good herb,” San Francisco changed its name in 1847 for financial reasons during the California Gold Rush, seeking prominence.
Lafayette, LA (Originally St. Jean du Vermilionville, Vermilionville)
Lafayette started as St. Jean du Vermilionville, later shortened to Vermilionville. The switch to Lafayette in 1884 honored the Marquis de Lafayette’s visit, connecting the town to American and French history.
Annapolis, MD (Originally Providence, Town at Proctor’s, Town at the Severn)
Annapolis evolved from Providence to Town at Proctor’s and Town at the Severn. In 1694, it became Annapolis, named after Princess Anne, securing its status as Maryland’s capital.
Saint Paul, MN (Originally Imnizaskadan, Pig’s Eye Landing)
The debate over Saint Paul’s origins, from Imnizaskadan to Pig’s Eye Landing, adds layers to its history. It officially became Saint Paul in 1840, honoring the apostle Paul.
Columbus, OH (Originally Franklinton)
Ohio’s capital started as Franklinton in 1797 but changed to Columbus in 1812 to honor Christopher Columbus, shaping its destiny as the state capital.
Salt Lake City, UT (Originally Great Salt Lake City)
Founded in 1847, the city dropped “Great” from its name in 1868, embracing a simpler identity tied to its geography and religious roots.
Indianapolis, IN (Originally Fall Creek)
Originally known as Fall Creek, Indianapolis got its name in 1821 when it became the state capital, cleverly combining Indiana with polis, the Greek word for city.
Los Angeles, CA (Originally El Pueblo de Nuestra Señora la Reina de los Ángeles del Río de Porciúncula)
The original name, meaning “The Town of Our Lady the Queen of the Angels of the Porciúncula River,” was shortened to Los Angeles. This city encapsulates cultural diversity.
New York City, NY (Originally New Amsterdam)
Founded by the Dutch in 1624 as New Amsterdam, it became New York in 1664 when the English took control, marking a pivotal moment in its colonial history and shaping its destiny as a global metropolis.
The Most Expensive Cities to Live in the US
If you’re dreaming about packing up and moving to another state, do your homework and determine the cost of living first. Several factors contribute to a city’s costs, including housing, transportation and general living. Research shows that dense urban areas, which tend to be more expensive areas to reside in, have more people moving out than moving in.
A study determined that in 312 cities and towns nationwide, the typical home is worth $1 million or more. This is an increase of 45 cities from a year ago and in increase of 104 cities from five years ago. The study also concludes that 70% of the million-dollar cities are concentrated in nine coastal metros, primarily San Francisco, New York and Los Angeles. The following is a complete list of 15 cities known for their high cost of living.
The Most Expensive Cities to Live in the US
15 of the World’s Scariest Volcanoes
Volcanoes, nature’s fiery spectacle, captivate us with their raw power and ability to shape landscapes. However, beneath their majestic beauty lies an ominous potential for destruction. From explosive eruptions to deadly pyroclastic flows, volcanoes have the capacity to unleash catastrophic forces. The following are 15 of the world’s scariest volcanoes, examining their geological characteristics, historical eruptions, and the potential risks they pose to nearby communities.
15 of the World’s Scariest Volcanoes
15 Breathtaking Must-See Churches Around the World
Embarking on a global journey to discover some of the world’s most beautiful churches is like going on a pilgrimage that goes beyond cultural and religious borders. These architectural marvels are not just stunning structures; they are living proof of human creativity, spiritual devotion, and historical importance. Whether it’s the towering Gothic cathedrals or the intricately adorned Orthodox sanctuaries, each church on this list welcomes visitors to experience a captivating blend of faith and artistic expression.