The Fascinating History Of Cities You Didn't Know
Historical sites and informative tours are a primary draw for travelers when exploring a new city, and for good reason. You can follow the brick path of Boston’s Freedom Trail to see 16 historic markers, wander through the National Mall in Washington DC, or drive back in time through eight states on Route 66. While experiencing America’s most popular attractions is a must for history buffs, don’t forget about those destinations with history you might have to search to find.
From haunted hotspots to forgotten folktales and completely random fun facts, we’ve rounded up seven cities with odd or interesting backstories to add to your bucket list.
Africatown, Mobile, Alabama
In the late 1800s, the last slave ship to enter the United States docked just outside of Mobile, Alabama. The importation of slaves had been banned at that point, so the ship, called the Clotilda, was burned and deliberately sunk under cover of night, with some slaves being sold far from Mobile, and others staying in the area after the Civil War. The history was shared orally, but the ship wasn't found until 2019. The survivors founded a community called Africatown, which houses the Africatown Heritage House and an exhibition on the Clotilda today.
North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Myrtle Beach’s northern neighbor may look like a small beach town on the surface, but its residents know its jivey history all too well. North Myrtle Beach is where the popular dance, The Shag, originated. It’s a super smooth dance style set to beach music that even played a role in integrating the city in the 1940s. There are plenty of open-air pavilions and dance halls remaining in the city today, and the Shag is celebrating its 40th anniversary since being designated the South Carolina state dance this year.
Concord, New Hampshire
Concord isn’t known just as a state capital, it’s also a hotspot for hockey players. The first-ever organized Black Ice Pond Hockey Championship, referring to ice in its purest form, originated in Concord in 1883. The city is also home to St. Paul’s School, where famed player Hobey Baker studied and played.
Saratoga Springs, New York
When you think about destinations for America’s elite, places like New York City, Los Angeles, Aspen, and Washington D.C. may come to mind. But, in the 19th and 20th centuries, the 1% flocked to Saratoga Springs, New York. Today, you’ll find opulent architecture left behind, now serving as the location for restaurants and resorts like the 1800s-built Saratoga Arms Hotel.
St. Augustine, Florida
St. Augustine is one of the most haunted towns in America, thanks to a jail built by Henry Flagler in 1891. The Old Jail, as it’s called, was in operation for nearly 60 years, and was known for the harsh and often inhumane treatment of its inmates. Brave ghostbusters can visit the jail, which has a long history of paranormal encounters.
New Haven, Connecticut
Forget New York or Chicago, this small New England town is on the map and coming for the title of America’s pizza capital. New Haven-style pizza has been around since 1925, marked by ultra-fermented chewy dough, smoky char, and quirky toppings like white clams and mashed potatoes. The regional style has earned the affectionate nickname “apizza.”
Egg Harbor, Wisconsin
You may think this town’s name has to do with its shape, or perhaps a primary food export. But no, Egg Harbor is rumored to be named after a food fight that took place when fur traders were racing to shore. The ships threw eggs in an attempt to slow each other down, leaving the harbor dotted with cracked eggshells—and Egg Harbor was born.
You Might Also Like
