From East Eau Claire to Altoona: The Name Game of a Wisconsin City

From East Eau Claire to Altoona: The Name Game of a Wisconsin City

Nestled along the Eau Claire River in west-central Wisconsin lies the city of Altoona. But its name wasn't always so. In fact, the city's journey to its current moniker is a story of practicality, confusion, and perhaps a touch of inspiration from another state.

East Eau Claire: A Location-Based Beginning

The story starts in 1881 when the Chicago, St. Paul, Minneapolis and Omaha Railway sought a new location for its terminal. They found suitable land east of the existing Eau Claire terminal, and the new community was aptly named "East Eau Claire." It was a straightforward choice, reflecting its geographic position.

A Name Change to Avoid Confusion

However, the practicality of the name soon faced a challenge: confusion. Having two stations with similar names, "Eau Claire" and "East Eau Claire," caused logistical headaches for both the railroad and the public. To avoid this issue, the railroad swiftly renamed the new terminal "Altoona" on October 14, 1882, just a year after its establishment.

The Inspiration Behind Altoona

The exact reason for choosing "Altoona" remains somewhat open to interpretation. Some believe it was a nod to Altoona, Pennsylvania, a well-established railroad hub at the time. This connection between the two cities, both owing their rise to the railroad, holds a certain poetic charm.

Another possibility is that the name was influenced by the presence of immigrants from Altona, Germany, in the area. While the pronunciation differs slightly, the similarity in spelling suggests a potential link.

A City Takes Root and Earns its Nickname

Regardless of the specific inspiration, the name "Altoona" stuck. The community continued to grow, and in 1887, it was officially incorporated as a city. Today, Altoona stands as a thriving community with its own unique identity, forever linked to its railroad roots and the interesting story behind its name.

It's also worth noting that Altoona earned the nickname "Cinder City" due to the partially burned cinders of coal and wood that resulted from the steam engines used to power the trains at the time. These cinders were a constant presence in the early days of the city, shaping its character and leaving a lasting mark on its history.

So, the next time you visit Altoona, remember that it's more than just a city with a unique name. It's a place with a rich history, a strong connection to the railroad, and a nickname that reflects its industrial past.