8 Bizarrely Named Towns In Virginia
Virginia is known for its colonial heritage, natural beauty, and diverse communities. From the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains to the bustling Atlantic coastline, it is home to some of the nation’s most iconic landmarks, including George Washington's Mount Vernon, Monticello, and historic Jamestown. While Virginia is well-known for its historical roots and pivotal role in the American Revolution and Civil War, it also harbors a quirkier side — one that’s reflected in the peculiar names of its towns.
Some names are steeped in legend, others have unexpected historical ties, and a few leave visitors scratching their heads. These oddly named towns are more than just conversation starters; they reveal Virginia’s past, shaped by settlers, Native American influences, and even a touch of humor. Places like Short Pump, Dinwiddie, and Goochland may sound amusing, but their names often reveal fascinating stories about local geography, historical figures, or long-forgotten customs.
Whether the name was inspired by an old tavern pump, a convergence of rivers, or an eccentric colonial governor, each town carries a legacy. Exploring these bizarrely named places reminds us that history is also found in the small, quirky details of everyday life!
Dumfries
Dumfries, Virginia, is the state’s oldest continuously chartered town, established in 1749. Named after Dumfriesshire, Scotland — birthplace of its founder, John Graham — the town was once a major shipping hub along Quantico Creek. He provided 60 acres of land for the town, which later became the first of seven townships in Prince William County. While Dumfries might sound more like a dish than a town, it has a deep and fascinating history.
Visitors can explore the Weems-Botts Museum & Annex, a preserved colonial home that tells the story of Dumfries' past. The National Museum of the Marine Corps, just a short drive away, lets visitors learn more about military history. For nature lovers, the Laurel Loop Trail in the nearby Prince William Forest Park is a great sightseeing opportunity. The Historic Dumfries Cemetery also reveals a little about the town’s early days, preserving the stories of its first residents.
Chilhowie
Chilhowie has a history that stretches back to the 18th century. Chilhowie, meaning "Valley of Many Deer" was known as "Town House Community" and later "Greever’s Switch," named after a railroad siding in town. While the name is deeply rooted in Native American history, its unusual sound and difficult pronunciation make it stand out among Virginia towns.
Visitors can enjoy the Chilhowie Town Park and Recreational Center and explore nearby Saltville Battlefields. History buffs can browse unique finds at Antiques at Winterhurst or visit the Norfolk & Western Railway Depot located in Marion to learn more about the town’s railroad past. For entertainment, the historic Lincoln Theatre near the railway depot holds live performances in a beautifully restored venue.
Dinwiddie
Founded in the early 1700s, Dinwiddie is named after Robert Dinwiddie, Virginia’s lieutenant governor (1751-1758). Dinwiddie played a major role in the American Civil War, witnessing nearly 50 battles — more than any other county in the U.S. Notable engagements include the Battle of White Oak Road, the Battle of Sutherland Station, the Battle of Dinwiddie Courthouse, and the Battle of Hatcher’s Run.
Visitors today can explore key historical sites such as the Dinwiddie County Courthouse, which is located in Dinwiddie, as well as other sites located just outside the town like Pamplin Historical Park, National Museum of the Civil War Soldier, and the Five Forks Battlefield. Other significant landmarks include Burnt Quarter, an old plantation with Civil War history, and the Williamson Site, an important archaeological location.
Farmville
Established in 1798, Farmville was a key agricultural and tobacco trade hub. Thus, the town received a straightforward name: "Farm" + "Ville" (French for "town"). However, today, the name might remind people more of the popular online game than an actual historic town. Despite its simple name, Farmville has a fascinating past. Before becoming a town, the area was known as "The Farmlands" and was part of a large tobacco plantation called Bizarre.
The origins of the name Bizarre remain unknown. Visitors can check out the Robert Russa Moton Museum, a national historic landmark that was once a high school and played a key role in the Civil Rights Movement. High Bridge Trail State Park features a rail trail and a historic bridge used during the Civil War. Wilck’s Lake Park provides a peaceful setting for outdoor activities, while the Historic Farmville Train Station teaches more about the town’s railroad heritage.
Short Pump
Named after a short-handled water pump at an 1815 tavern, Short Pump started as a stagecoach stop. Stagecoach drivers traveling between Richmond and Charlottesville would often say, "I'll see you at Short Pump," and the name stuck. Today, visitors can check out the Short Pump Town Center, which is a major shopping and dining destination. The nearby Deep Run Park is home to walking trails, picnic spots, and a lake.
History lovers can explore the Meadow Farm Museum, a preserved 19th-century farm, and the Virginia Randolph Museum, which honors a pioneering educator, both located in Glen Allen. Art enthusiasts can visit Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience Richmond, a digital exhibition located in nearby Henrico. For those looking to relax in nature, Tuckahoe Creek Park, which is also situated in Henrico, has picturesque water views and wooded trails.
Goochland
Founded in 1728, Goochland was named after Sir William Gooch, a British governor. Visitors can check out Tuckahoe Plantation, one of the oldest James River plantation mansions located in Henrico, about 16 miles from Goochland. It was the childhood home of Thomas Jefferson and even had a private schoolhouse where he and his cousins were educated.
Historic Tuckahoe, close to the plantation, lets tourists learn more about colonial life. Sabot Hill, about 9 miles from Goochland, is another notable estate tied to Virginia’s rich past. The Jackson Blacksmith Shop preserves traditional blacksmithing techniques for those interested in craftsmanship. Meanwhile, art and nature unite at My Three Chambered Heart, an immersive artistic and ecological experience.
Front Royal
Officially named in 1788, Front Royal’s origins remain debated — one theory links it to a Revolutionary War challenge: “Front!” answered by “Royal!” Beyond its quirky name, Front Royal played a key role in education, becoming home to Virginia’s second subscription library in 1799 — now known as Samuels Public Library. Visitors can explore Skyline Caverns, known for its rare anthodite crystal formations, or check out the Shenandoah Valley Overlook and Signal Knob Overlook.
The town is also a starting point for the Appalachian National Scenic Trail, drawing hikers from around the country. History buffs should visit the Warren Heritage Society, which preserves the town’s past, while beer lovers can check out the Virginia Beer Museum to learn about the state’s brewing history. And, of course, no trip to Front Royal is complete without driving along Skyline Drive, one of the most scenic routes in America!
Damascus
Before European settlers arrived, Native American tribes hunted and fished in this area. In 1821, Henry A. Mock Jr. and his family established a settlement called Mock’s Mill, building mills powered by Laurel Creek. In 1886, former Confederate General John Daniel Imboden acquired the town from the Mock family and renamed it Damascus after the ancient Syrian city. Today, Damascus is known as "Trail Town, USA," a fitting title given its location along multiple scenic trails.
It also carries the nickname "Friendliest Town on the Trail" due to its position on the Appalachian Trail, one of the most famous long-distance hiking routes in the world. The Virginia Creeper Trail, a 34-mile scenic biking and walking path, also runs through the town. In addition, Damascus intersects with U.S. Bicycle Route 76 and the Iron Mountain Trail, making it a hotspot for hikers and cyclists alike.
Each place tells its story, from famous landmarks to towns with unusual names like Short Pump and Goochland. Whether you’re exploring colonial Dumfries, the deer-filled valley of Chilhowie, or the trail-friendly Damascus, these towns remind us that history is also found in the curious names that make Virginia interesting!
