The Origin of the Name of the City, Cincinnati
Cincinnati is a city in the southwestern part of Ohio, United States. It is the third-largest city in the state, and its history dates back to the late 18th century. The name Cincinnati, however, has a much older origin, dating back to ancient Rome.
Lucius Quinctius Cincinnatus: A Roman Dictator's Resounding Impact
Lucius Quinctius Cincinnatus was a Roman statesman and military leader who lived in the 5th century BCE. He gained fame for his leadership of the Roman army during the war against the Aequi in 458 BCE. According to legend, Cincinnatus was plowing his fields when he was called upon to serve as dictator of Rome to deal with an impending military crisis. He accepted the appointment, led the Roman army to victory, and returned to his farm after just 16 days in office. His example of public service and humility became a symbol of Roman virtue and civic duty, and he became an enduring figure in Western history.
Cincinnatus Leaves the Plough to Dictate Laws to Rome by Juan Antonio Ribera
The Founding of the Society of the Cincinnati
The founders of the Society of the Cincinnati, an organization of American Revolutionary War officers, were admirers of Cincinnatus. The Society was founded in 1783 to perpetuate the memory of the War for American Independence and to promote the cause of liberty. They named the Society after Cincinnatus because of his reputation as a model citizen-soldier who had given up his power voluntarily to return to his farm. The Society's emblem features a bald eagle and a medallion with the image of Cincinnatus.
Naming of Cincinnati
In 1788, a group of settlers led by John Cleves Symmes founded a new town in the Northwest Territory. They named the town Losantiville, which means "town opposite the mouth of the Licking River" in reference to its location on the Ohio River. However, in 1790, General Arthur St. Clair, the governor of the Northwest Territory, renamed the town Cincinnati in honor of the Society of the Cincinnati. The town grew rapidly in the 19th century and became a major industrial center, particularly known for its pork packing industry and its role in the Underground Railroad.
Cincinnati Skyline Photographed in Kentucky
Conclusion
The origin of the name of the city, Cincinnati, is a tribute to the legacy of Lucius Quinctius Cincinnatus and the ideals of the Society of the Cincinnati. It is a reminder of the important role that civic duty and public service have played in American history and the enduring legacy of ancient Rome in Western culture.
As Oruga, we are proud to be part of the wonderful community of Cincinnati. From the moment we established our brand, we knew that this was the perfect city for us to call home. The vibrant culture, friendly people, and rich history of this place have all contributed to our growth and success. We love being able to connect with fellow Cincinnatians and share in the local pride that permeates this city.
Whether we're attending local events, supporting small businesses, or simply exploring the many neighborhoods that make Cincinnati unique, we feel privileged to be part of such a special community. And we're excited to see what the future holds as we continue to grow and thrive alongside our fellow citizens.
- The Founders, Nolan and Preston
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