Bizarre and Hilarious Town Names in Virginia That You Have to See to Believe!

Every town has its unique name, whether it was derived from an eccentric colonial governor, an old tavern pump, or a confluence of rivers.

There are names that leave visitors perplexed, some with surprising historical connections, and others buried in folklore. More than just conversation starters, these strangely named cities offer insight into Virginia’s history, which was influenced by Native Americans, settlers, and even a little humor.

Discovering these oddly named locations serves as a reminder that history may also be discovered in the little, odd nuances of daily life!

Dinwiddie

Named for Robert Dinwiddie, the lieutenant governor of Virginia from 1751 to 1758, Dinwiddie was established in the early 1700s. Witnessing more engagements than any other county in the United States, Dinwiddie played a significant role in the American Civil War.

The Battle of White Oak Road, the Battle of Sutherland Station, the Battle of Dinwiddie Courthouse, and the Battle of Hatcher’s Run are among the notable conflicts.

Today, tourists can visit important historical locations like the Dinwiddie County Courthouse, which is situated in Dinwiddie, as well as other locations close outside the town, like the Five Forks Battlefield, Pamplin Historical Park, and the National Museum of the Civil War Soldier.

Other noteworthy landmarks include the Williamson Site, a crucial archeological site, and Burnt Quarter, a historic plantation with Civil War heritage.

Chilhowie

The history of Chilhowie dates back to the 18th century. “Valley of Many Deer” (Chilhowie) was formerly called as “Town House Community” and then “Greever’s Switch,” after a railroad siding in the town.

Despite having a strong Native American heritage, the name stands out among Virginia communities due to its peculiar sound and challenging pronunciation.

The neighboring Saltville Battlefields and Chilhowie Town Park and Recreational Center are open to visitors.

To discover more about Marion’s railroad history, history buffs can visit the Norfolk & Western Railway Depot or peruse unusual finds at Antiques at Winterhurst.

Live performances are held in the wonderfully restored ancient Lincoln Theatre, which is close to the railway depot.

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Short Pump

Short Pump began as a stagecoach stop and was named for a short-handled water pump at a tavern in 1815.

The phrase “I’ll see you at Short Pump,” which stagecoach drivers frequently used when traveling between Richmond and Charlottesville, became the moniker.

Today, tourists can explore the Short Pump Town Center, a popular place to eat and shop. There are walking trails, picnic areas, and a lake at the neighboring Deep Run Park.

In Glen Allen, history buffs can visit the Virginia Randolph Museum, which honors a trailblazing educator, and the Meadow Farm Museum, a preserved 19th-century farm.

In adjacent Henrico, art lovers can explore the digital installation Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience Richmond. Tuckahoe Creek Park, located near Henrico, offers woodland trails and scenic river vistas for visitors seeking to unwind in nature.

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Goochland

Named for the British governor Sir William Gooch, Goochland was established in 1728. About 16 miles from Goochland, in Henrico, visitors can tour Tuckahoe Plantation, one of the oldest plantation estates on the James River.

Thomas Jefferson grew up there, and he and his cousins received their education in a private schoolhouse.

Near the plantation, Historic Tuckahoe provides visitors with further information on colonial life. Approximately nine miles from Goochland is Sabot Hill, another noteworthy house with ties to Virginia’s illustrious past.

For individuals who appreciate craftsmanship, the Jackson Blacksmith Shop maintains traditional blacksmithing methods. At My Three Chambered Heart, an immersive artistic and ecological experience, art and nature come together.

Damascus

Native American tribes hunted and fished in this region prior to the arrival of European settlers. Henry A. Mock Jr. and his family founded Mock’s Mill, a town in 1821, where they constructed mills that were fueled by Laurel Creek.

The town was purchased from the Mock family in 1886 by former Confederate General John Daniel Imboden, who renamed it Damascus after the ancient Syrian capital.

Given its location along several picturesque trails, Damascus is often referred to as “Trail Town, USA,” a suitable moniker.

Moreover, it is known as the “Friendliest Town on the Trail” because of its location along the Appalachian Trail, one of the world’s most well-known long-distance hiking routes.

The community is also traversed by the 34-mile Virginia Creeper Trail, a picturesque bike and walking route. Damascus is also a popular destination for bikers and hikers due to its intersections with the Iron Mountain Trail and U.S. Bicycle Route 76.