Bizarre Texas Town Names That Will Make You Wonder
Ever heard of a town called Ding Dong? Texas has some of the most bizarre town names that will make you scratch your head. From Cut and Shoot to Uncertain, these names are as unique as the state itself. Imagine telling someone you live in Bug Tussle or Dime Box. Each name has a story, often rooted in local history or quirky events. These unusual names add charm to the Lone Star State, making road trips even more interesting. Ready to learn about these strange places? Buckle up and get ready for a wild ride through Texas!
Texas Town Names That Will Make You Laugh
Texas is known for its vast landscapes, rich history, and unique culture. But did you know it also has some of the most bizarre town names in the United States? These names will make you chuckle and wonder about their origins. Let's take a look at some of the quirkiest town names in the Lone Star State.
Quirky Texas Town Names
1. Ding Dong
Yes, you read that right. Ding Dong is a small community in Bell County. The name comes from a humorous story involving two early settlers, Bert and Zulis Bell, who owned a store. A painter suggested they add two bells with their names on them to the store sign. He also added the words "Ding Dong" underneath, and the name stuck.
2. Cut and Shoot
Located in Montgomery County, Cut and Shoot got its name from a 1912 community dispute. During a heated argument over a church, a young boy exclaimed he was going to "cut around the corner and shoot through the bushes." The phrase became the town's name.
3. Dime Box
Dime Box is a small town in Lee County. The name originated from the 19th century when settlers would leave their mail and a dime in a box at Brown's Mill. The dime was the fee for the miller to take the mail to Giddings, the nearest post office.
4. Uncertain
Uncertain is a tiny town in Harrison County, near Caddo Lake. The name comes from the early days when steamboat captains were uncertain about navigating the tricky waters of the lake. The name reflects the cautious approach needed to traverse the area.
5. Bug Tussle
Bug Tussle, located in Fannin County, has a name that sparks curiosity. The story goes that during a community picnic, bugs were so numerous that people spent more time swatting them than eating. Hence, the name Bug Tussle was born.
6. Nameless
Nameless is a small community in Travis County. When residents applied for a post office, they submitted several names, all of which were rejected. Frustrated, they sent in "Nameless," and it was accepted.
7. Bigfoot
Bigfoot is a town in Frio County named after William A. A. "Bigfoot" Wallace, a famous Texas Ranger and frontiersman. The name pays homage to his larger-than-life persona and contributions to Texas history.
8. Muleshoe
Muleshoe, located in Bailey County, got its name from the nearby Muleshoe Ranch. The ranch was named for the muleshoe-shaped brand used on the livestock. The town adopted the name when it was established in the early 20th century.
9. Kermit
Kermit, in Winkler County, was named after Kermit Roosevelt, the son of President Theodore Roosevelt. The name was chosen to honor the young Roosevelt's visit to the area during a hunting trip.
10. Jot 'Em Down
Jot 'Em Down is a community in Delta County. The name comes from a fictional store in the popular radio show "Lum and Abner." The store's slogan was "Jot 'Em Down," and the name was adopted by the town.
11. Turkey
Turkey, located in Hall County, got its name from nearby Turkey Creek. The creek was named for the wild turkeys that roamed the area. The town embraced the name and even hosts an annual Turkey Fest.
12. Earth
Earth is a small town in Lamb County. The name was chosen by the town's founder, William E. Halsell, who wanted a name that was simple and easy to remember. Earth certainly fits the bill.
13. Hoot and Holler
Hoot and Holler is a whimsical name for a community in East Texas. The name reflects the lively and spirited nature of the residents, who are known for their friendly and welcoming attitude.
14. Smiley
Smiley, located in Gonzales County, was named after John Smiley, an early settler. The name brings a sense of cheerfulness and positivity to the town, making it a pleasant place to visit.
15. Welfare
Welfare is a small community in Kendall County. The name comes from the German word "Wohlfahrt," meaning "welfare" or "well-being." Early German settlers chose the name to reflect their hopes for a prosperous future.
16. Goodnight
Goodnight, in Armstrong County, was named after Charles Goodnight, a famous cattle rancher and co-founder of the Goodnight-Loving Trail. The name honors his contributions to the cattle industry and Texas history.
17. Needmore
Needmore is a town in Terry County with a name that suggests a desire for growth and improvement. The name likely reflects the early settlers' hopes for more resources and opportunities in their new community.
18. No Trees
No Trees, located in Andrews County, has a name that speaks for itself. The area is known for its lack of trees, and the name was chosen to reflect the barren landscape.
19. Old Dime Box
Old Dime Box, also in Lee County, is the original settlement before the town of Dime Box was established. The name serves as a reminder of the area's history and the early settlers' resourcefulness.
20. Whiteface
Whiteface, in Cochran County, got its name from the white-faced Hereford cattle that were common in the area. The name reflects the town's agricultural roots and connection to ranching.
21. Happy
Happy, located in Swisher County, has a name that brings a smile to anyone who hears it. The town was named after Happy Draw, a nearby creek. The cheerful name makes it a delightful place to visit.
22. Telephone
Telephone, in Fannin County, got its name from the first telephone in the area. The postmaster, Pete Hindman, named the town after the new and exciting technology that connected the community to the outside world.
23. Lovelady
Lovelady, located in Houston County, was named after Cyrus Lovelady, an early settler. The name brings a sense of warmth and affection to the town, making it a charming place to explore.
24. Tarzan
Tarzan, in Martin County, has a name inspired by the famous fictional character created by Edgar Rice Burroughs. The name reflects the adventurous spirit of the early settlers who established the community.
25. Zipperlandville
Zipperlandville, located in Falls County, has a name that piques curiosity. The town was named after a local store that sold zippers, a new and innovative product at the time. The quirky name adds a touch of whimsy to the area.
Texas Town Names That Stand Out
Texas is full of unique town names that make you do a double-take. From Uncertain to Ding Dong, these names add a quirky charm to the state. They reflect the rich history and diverse culture of Texas, making road trips even more interesting.
Next time you’re driving through Texas, take a moment to appreciate these unusual names. They’re not just funny; they tell stories of the past and the people who settled there. Whether it’s Cut and Shoot or Bug Tussle, each name has a tale worth discovering.
So, pack your bags, hit the road, and explore these fascinating towns. You’ll find that Texas is more than just big; it’s full of surprises. Enjoy the journey and the stories these towns have to offer.
