30 US Cities Whose Renamed Ranked From Unbelievable to the Weirdest

Get ready to buckle up and embark on a wild ride through the zany and utterly fascinating saga of American city name changes! From the quirky to the outright bizarre, we’ve ranked 30 US cities that decided to shake things up, transforming their names in ways that’ll make you do a double-take. Imagine stumbling upon a city that once mirrored the charm of the old world, only to find it’s now flaunting a name that screams modern cool. Or how about a town that traded in its historical moniker for something that sounds like it came straight out of a comic book?

This isn’t just a history lesson; it’s a front-row ticket to the most entertaining name-changing bonanza across the US. From laugh-out-loud funny to eyebrow-raisingly strange, these stories highlight the colorful, ever-changing tapestry of American identity. So, sit tight and prepare for an unforgettable journey through the most unbelievable to weirdest city renamings you’ve ever heard!

35. Phoenix, AZ

The transformation of Phoenix, AZ, from Swilling’s Mill to its present name, is a tale rooted in the aftermath of the Mexican-American War. With the 1848 treaty, the region, including the future Phoenix, transitioned from Mexican to U.S. territory. In 1863, the Arizona Territory was carved from New Mexico, setting the stage for its development. Civil War veteran Jack Swilling recognized the agricultural potential of the Salt River Valley in 1867, founding the Swilling Irrigation Canal Company to irrigate the arid land. His initiative led to establishing a settlement initially named Swilling’s Mill.

The early settlement underwent several name changes, reflecting its evolving identity, from Swilling’s Mill to Helling Mill, then to Mill City, and briefly considered names like Stonewall and Salina. However, David Duppa’s suggestion of Phoenix prevailed, symbolizing rebirth from the ancient Hohokam civilization’s ruins. Officially recognized in 1868, Phoenix’s journey from a small community to a bustling city began, incorporating in 1881, a testament to its resilience and growth.

34. Atlanta, GA

Atlanta’s origins trace back to the early 19th century, starting as Canebreak before evolving into a pivotal transportation hub. Following the Creek peoples’ forced cession of the land in 1821, settlers named the area Canebreak. It was later renamed Terminus in 1837, reflecting its role as the railroad’s endpoint. Although Terminus, Deanville, and Thrasherville were used interchangeably, the city sought a name that resonated more with its aspirations and growth.

Incorporated as Marthasville in 1842, in honor of Governor Wilson Lumpkin’s daughter, the city was renamed Atlanta in 1847. This change was a nod to the Atlantic Ocean. It aimed to symbolize the city’s ambition as a transportation and economic center in the South. Atlanta’s rich history, from its indigenous roots to its modern prominence, reflects a journey of transformation and resilience.

33. Cincinnati, OH

Cincinnati’s evolution from Losantiville to its current name encapsulates a rich cultural and historical development narrative. Initially named for its geographical features and the confluence of rivers, Losantiville’s name was deemed unsatisfactory by Gen. Arthur St. Clair. His preference for a name with historical significance led to the adoption of Cincinnati in honor of the Society of Cincinnati, which celebrated virtues of civic virtue and leadership exemplified by Roman leader Lucius Quintius Cincinnatus.

This name change rebranded the city and aligned it with ideals of honor and selfless service, distancing it from its less melodious original name. Cincinnati’s growth into a vibrant city known for its cultural and economic contributions reflects the enduring legacy of its naming story.

32. Kalamazoo, MI

Kalamazoo’s journey from its original name, Bronson, is a story of community values and cultural heritage. Founded by Titus Bronson in the early 19th century, the village’s initial name was changed due to Bronson’s unpopular stances. In 1836, the community embraced the name Kalamazoo, a decision that led to Bronson’s departure. With its indigenous roots, the name Kalamazoo carries multiple interpretations, from “boiling water” to “reflecting river,” each reflecting aspects of the local geography and legends.

The legend of Fleet Foot, a Potawatomi man who raced to win his bride, adds a romantic layer to the city’s name, emphasizing speed, endurance, and the area’s natural beauty. Kalamazoo’s name change reflects a community’s desire to forge an identity that honors its natural surroundings and indigenous heritage, contributing to its unique history in Michigan.