I found out that the reason Pittsburgh Pa is spelled with an H is that it means the town had a fort in it Probably derived from German language
interesting, but burg=fort.
You’re both right:
Burgh - From the Indo-European root *bher(e)gh meaning “fort or town on a height, hence strong”.
There are many cities with names ending in berg, burgh, or bury; Your example Pittsburgh P.A. (or Pittsburg in Texas and California), or others - Canterbury and Hamburg (Mmmm hamburger).
Here’s another one. “The “h” is all important, and distinguishes the Pittsburgh in Pennsylvania from other towns of the same name in various parts of the country.”
All Interesting thoughts people! Thanks
I wouldn’t give too much credence to the “burgh”= “fort” explanation. I doubt that it’s real.
I’ve posted the question to the American Dialect Society Mailing List. I’ll report back replies Sunday or so.