How Many Cities in the US Are Named After Other Countries?

Situated in the heart of Africa, Johannesburg is one of the largest cities, serving as a major economic hub in the region. Interestingly, it was mentioned that there are several towns in North America carrying the same name, Johannesburg, and they were likely named due to Dutch influence, as Johannes is the Dutch equivalent of John. This article explores the phenomenon of cities and towns in the United States being named after places in other countries, with a focus on cities in Massachusetts and other states.

Massachusetts' Rich Historical Naming

Delving into the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, it's fascinating to see how deeply rooted the names of towns and cities are in British history. A few well-known examples include:

Boston, which was named after Boston in Lincolnshire, England. Suffolk County, including neighborhoods like Hyde Park, Dorchester, Brighton, and Charlestown. Cambridge, Plymouth, and Kingston, all with connections to various counties in Britain. Dover, named after Dover in Kent, England. Newbury and Northampton, similarly named after towns in the UK. Salem, named after the ancient English town of Salem in Bedfordshire.

Additionally, many towns and cities were named after the surnames of English founders. Examples include:

Stoughton, named after a descendant of the English settlers. Winthrop, after the Winthrop family who played a significant role in early American settlement. Revere, after Paul Revere, a renowned patriot of the American Revolution. Amherst, named after another English family. Lennox, similarly named after an English family name. Edgartown, named after a town in Somerset, England.

Other States with Exotic Names

Similar naming conventions were observed in other states. For example:

New Madrid in Missouri was named after Madrid, Spain, when the region was a part of Spanish Louisiana. New Orleans, Louisiana, was named after the city in France, which was then part of Spanish Louisiana. Moscow, Idaho, was named after the Russian capital, reflecting the area's exploration by Russian fur traders.

Furthermore, Washington, DC, stands out as being named after George Washington, who was born in Westmoreland County, Virginia, named after the county in Gloucestershire, England.

Recognizable Designs

The trend of naming towns and cities after places with similar names from other countries is reflective of the historical diaspora and the cultural influences during the early colonization period. This naming practice can be observed throughout the United States, showcasing a rich tapestry of cultural heritage and historical connections.

Across the country, cities like New York, New Jersey, and New Bedford mirror this pattern, with their names directly linked to places in the United Kingdom.

Conclusion

The phenomenon of cities named after other countries is deeply rooted in the early history of the United States. This habit of naming towns and cities after places from the mother country not only reflects cultural influences but also creates a geographical connection that endures through the generations. As we explore the history of the United States, it is essential to understand these naming conventions, providing valuable insights into the nation's diverse heritage.