1-833-933-4TFD
Toa Baja is a town located on the northern coast of Puerto Rico, bordered by Dorado to the east and Catano and Bayamon to the west. It is a fascinating municipality with a rich history that spans back several centuries. Here are seven interesting facts about Toa Baja.
1. Origin of the name
The name "Toa Baja" originates from the Taíno word for "the great river," which refers to the Rio de la Plata, the river that runs through the town.
2. The town’s founding year
Toa Baja was founded in 1745 by refugees from Toa Alta, a nearby town that had been destroyed in an earthquake.
3. The Battle of Toa Baja
On October 2, 1758, the British attacked Toa Baja. The outcome of the battle was a victory for the Spanish, who managed to repel the English troops.
4. The first sugar mill in Puerto Rico
In 1523, the first sugar mill was established in Puerto Rico, specifically in Toa Baja. This mill marked the beginning of the island's sugar industry.
5. The Hurricane of 1825
On September 3, 1825, a hurricane caused extensive damage to the town of Toa Baja. The devastation was so significant that the town had to be rebuilt almost entirely.
6. Toa Baja’s Coat of Arms
Toa Baja's city seal features an image of a Taino Indian woman holding a basket of cassava, a staple crop of the Taíno people. The basket itself is representative of the town's agricultural roots.
7. First Mayor of African Descent
Toa Baja holds the distinction of having had Puerto Rico's first black mayor following local elections in 1812, when Francisco Caraballo became the mayor of Toa Baja.
Toa Baja is a town rich in history, from its Taíno roots to its colonial past and beyond. With so many interesting facts throughout its history, it's no wonder that this municipality is a fascinating destination for travelers looking to dive deeper into the history of Puerto Rico.
← Older Post Newer Post →