When Virginia was named for the Virgin Queen, Queen Elizabeth I of England, it might have been seen as one way to curry favour with the Queen. Over the centuries, it hasn’t been unusual to name towns, rivers, lakes, islands or states after the head of state or other people in the royal family, when the explorers discovered something unidentified by their people. It might also be something happening in the old country, a town named for a royal is not unheard of.
As long as the country stayed a monarchy, the town might still keep its old name – but the feelings of the people towards their royal family might also have the effect of a town changing name whenever the feelings changed. Examples of this can be found in former monarchies, such as Russia or Greece, but even in Norway – still a monarchy, you can see it in the town of Narvik. It changed name in 1902, a period when the Norwegians wanted to be separate from Sweden. It went from being called Victoriahavn, or Victoria Port in English, to Narvik. Victoriahavn was inspired by the, at the time, Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden and Norway, née Viktoria of Baden.
Other places have retained their royal connections. This month's TRF newsletter touch down on
some of the many places that are still named for royals. We have chosen to focus on the non-European continents.
We hope you enjoy,
Norwegianne, Zonk & Avalon.
Thanks to kwanfan and Lady Jennifer for helping out with this newsletter.
