We all know a Robert called Rob or a Michael who goes by Mike, but did you know that some cities and towns have nicknames as well? Think of how Chicago is known as “The Windy City.” When it comes to Allentown, right here in Pennsylvania, this popular city has its own share of nicknames that it’s acquired through the years.
Here are some of nicknames you’ll find for Allentown:
Peanut City
Silk City
The Queen City
Band City USA
Truck Capital of the World
Cement City
The question becomes, how did it acquire all of these names? Let’s take a closer look at them to see the history behind these unique Allentown nicknames.
Many know of a famous Pennsylvanian named William Penn, but William Allen was an important part of this state’s history as well as the founder of Lehigh County (1812), Allentown (1762), and Mount Airy (which was actually an estate and manor first, built in 1750). Speaking of Allentown, Allen chose the location due to the Lehigh River and its ability to easily transport goods to and from Philadelphia. Today, Allentown is Lehigh County’s county seat.
Let’s dig a little deeper into William Allen’s story and his connection to some well-known historical people.
