Valhalla, New York

It gained its name when controversy arose over the naming of a in the 19th century, due to the flooding of an existing town (Kensico) now under water of the lake created by the Kensico Dam, part of the New York City Water System. According to local historians and published work, the wife of a postmaster was a devoted fan of Richard Wagner and she shared the composer's interest in Norse mythology. Her preference led to the choice of name Valhalla, after the heavenly hall of slain warriors in that mythology. The area still maintains its association with death through its world famous cemetery area.