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REPORT OF THE UNITED STATES GEOGRAPHIC BOARD. 



ORIGIN OF AND CHANGES IN GEOGRAPHIC NAMES. 



With the exception of the names of political subdivisions, geo- 

 graphic names in this country have not, as a rule, been bestowed by 

 any formal authority. The names of natural features — rivers, lakes, 

 mountains, capes, etc. — and of unchartered bodies of population 

 have received their names originally from explorers, surveyors, and 

 early settlers, and these names have been perpetuated by common 

 consent. The names of states, counties, and municipalities of all 



