5 Hilarious Town Names to Replace Rockford

Do you know the history behind how the city of Rockford got its name? It doesn't matter if you do or not because we should rename the city. Do you think local leaders would put any of these 5 funny names up for a vote?

Do You Know How Rockford, Illinois Got Its Name

Let's cover a quick piece of Rockford history I found at GoRockford.com.

The city of Rockford was settled in the early 1830s by three individuals. Rockford was settled in 1834-1835 by Germanicus Kent, Thatcher Blake, and Lewis Lemon.

Rockford was the halfway point between Galena and Chicago, and for a little while, the area was referred to as, "Midway." That name didn't last long as the area became well-known for having an excellent FORD across the ROCK River.

As a verb - ford - describes crossing a body of water on foot at a shallow point or driving across it in a vehicle. The idea is that you're not using a bridge or a boat to cross the water.

As a noun - ford - means a shallow point in a river or stream.

Let's have some fun RENAMING our little place on this earth.

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1. RockTOWN

When I first moved here in 1995, I remember someone saying "Welcome to Rocktown, home of the HIllrods."

I still don't know exactly what a "hillrod" is, but I gathered it wasn't a flattering label.

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2. RockVEGAS

This is the one I hear most often, especially now that we have slot machines on every block and the Hard Rock Casino.

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3. RICKford

I can get behind this one because Rockford is home to legendary Rock n Roll Hall of Fame guitarist, Rick Nielsen, of Cheap Trick.

MORE: TV Station Shares Photo Proving Rockford Has the Worst Drivers in Illinois

4. RockBOTTOM

There are times when living in Rockford can feel that way. Like you've hit rock bottom.

This last one I've always wanted to say on the air but can never bring myself to say.

5. RockTURD

I love my city but sometimes Rockford is a big, steaming turd of a town.

Tell me I'm wrong.

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