Sometimes the history behind how these towns got their names is as funny as their monikers. Let's do this :
DISH, Texas
This community, established in June 2000, was originally named Clark. In November 2005, the community accepted an offer to rename itself "DISH" (all capital letters) as part of a commercial agreement with the satellite television company, "Dish Network." In exchange for renaming the town to DISH, all residents received a free basic television service for ten years and a free digital video recorder from Dish Network, which even in hindsight is a totally reasonable agreement that you know you'd accept.
Bat Cave, North Carolina
This unincorporated community in Western North Carolina got its name from the variety of bats that make their home in a cave on Bluerock Mountain. And it’s not just any cave — it’s North America’s largest known granite fissure cave, protected by The Nature Conservancy.
Public hiking has been discontinued on the property in an effort to prevent the spread of white nose syndrome in the bats. Also protecting the property for some reason? An eccentric billionaire.
Boring, Oregon
Despite its name, Boring is anything but dull. Named after William H. Boring, a former Union soldier who settled in the area, this town is proud of its unusual name. The best thing is that Boring has embraced its title to the extent of partnering with Dull, Scotland, to promote tourism under the banner of “The League of Extraordinary Communities.” You've just got to love a town that's self aware.
Intercourse, Pennsylvania
Located in the heart of Amish country, Intercourse is a small village with a name that certainly raises eyebrows. The name likely derives from the original meaning of "intercourse," which refers to fellowship or social interaction, perfectly fitting for this tight-knit community. The village has become a popular tourist destination, offering visitors a glimpse into Amish life. DAILY Amish life (I think we all know what happens at night).
Balls Creek, Nova Scotia
Located in Cape Breton, Balls Creek has a playful name that often elicits chuckles from visitors. It may be a small community but its got absolutely massive....ummmm......charm.
Vulcan, Alberta
Named after the Roman god of fire, Vulcan has embraced its name with a Star Trek-themed tourism campaign (Spock himself Leonard Nimoy even visited!), making it a quirky and popular destination for fans of the series.
Toad Suck, Arkansas
Toad Suck gets its name from the days of riverboat travel along the Arkansas River. According to folklore, the name was inspired by steamboat captains who would frequent the local tavern, “sucking” on bottles of alcohol until they swelled up like toads. Whether or not this tale is true, the name has stuck and continues to amuse visitors.
Punkeydoodles Corners, Ontario
Straddling the border of three counties, Punkeydoodles Corners is a charmingly named hamlet in Ontario. Its whimsical name (translation : SO FRICKIN' CUTE!) is beloved by locals and serves as a popular photo stop for travelers. Coincidentally, it's also a perfect name for a miniature poodle.
Why, Arizona
Why ask why? This small community near the U.S.-Mexico border got its name due to the shape of the junction between State Routes 85 and 86, which formed a “Y.” When the state required town names to have at least three letters, the residents simply spelled out the word. This begs the question : Why are Why's residents so lazy?
Dildo, Newfoundland
There was zero chance this small town wasn't going to make the list. Perhaps the most famous of Canada's (heck, the world's!) amusingly named towns, Dildo is a small community on the island of Newfoundland. The origin of its name is unclear, and it's likely for the best we don't seek an answer and just accept it.
Comments