PENNSYLVANA - Pennsylvania is famous for its rich history, rolling farmlands, and a surprisingly suggestive collection of town names. From Blue Ball and Bird-in-Hand to Virginville, Paradise, and the infamous Intercourse, the Keystone State boasts a geographic lexicon that often raises eyebrows and elicits chuckles.
PENNSYLVANA - Pennsylvania is famous for its rich history, rolling farmlands, and a surprisingly suggestive collection of town names. From Blue Ball and Bird-in-Hand to Virginville, Paradise, and the infamous Intercourse, the Keystone State boasts a geographic lexicon that often raises eyebrows and elicits chuckles.
But before you jump to any saucy conclusions, the truth behind these seemingly raunchy monikers is often far more innocent, rooted in colonial-era signage, quirky folk tales, and practical navigation.
The Legendary Lancaster County Trio: Blue Ball, Bird-in-Hand, and Intercourse
This trio, nestled in the heart of Amish country, are arguably Pennsylvania's most famous place names.
- Intercourse: No, it wasn't named for anything illicit. The most accepted theory is that the town received its name because it was situated at the "intercourse" (a common 18th-century term for "intersection" or "connection") of two major roads: the old Newport Road and the State Road. Another theory suggests it referred to the "intercourse" or fellowship between various communities that met there.
- Blue Ball: You might imagine something scandalous, but the name is purely practical. It originated from a tavern established in 1766, which famously hung a large blue ball as its identifying sign. In an era when many people were illiterate, visual symbols were crucial for travelers to find inns and services. A large blue ball was unmistakable.
- Bird-in-Hand: This charming name also comes from an old tavern sign. Legend has it that workers clearing land for the turnpike in 1734 found a colonial coin featuring a man with a bird in his hand. They declared, "A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush!" and christened the local inn after the proverb.
Beyond Lancaster: More Peculiar Pennsylvania Place Names
Lancaster County isn't the only place with a colorful map.
- Rough and Ready (Schuylkill County): While it sounds like a rowdy tavern fight, this town was actually named in honor of President Zachary Taylor, whose military nickname was "Old Rough and Ready."
- Virginville (Berks County): Most likely derived from the "virgin" (untouched) forestland surrounding it when the town was founded, or potentially from the Virgin family, who were early settlers.
- Ogle (Somerset County): Despite the suggestive modern definition, this name is simply a surname, honoring early settler Joseph Ogle.
- Jersey Shore (Lycoming County): This is one of the state's most confusing names because it is nowhere near the ocean. It was named by a group of settlers from New Jersey who moved to the banks of the Susquehanna River.
A Testament to Quirky History
These names are more than just jokes; they are linguistic snapshots of Pennsylvania's past. They reflect a time when towns were named after local landmarks, prominent families, popular taverns, or even simple expressions. They are a charming reminder that history, like language, can sometimes be a little bit cheeky.
So, the next time you drive through Intercourse or pass by Blue Ball, you'll know that behind the suggestive façade lies a piece of genuine Pennsylvania history.
