You Don't Know Waynesville... Waynesville shares its name with Batman

Episode 2: Waynesville Is Named After Batman's Ancestor

When travelers roll through Waynesville on Historic Route 66, most assume our town's name comes from some forgotten local pioneer or early settler. The truth is far more interesting - and connects this small Missouri town to one of America's most iconic superheroes.

There was once a time when a friend and I called for help ;)

The General Behind the Name

Waynesville was named after Major General Anthony Wayne, a Revolutionary War hero whose aggressive tactics and fearless leadership earned him the nickname "Mad Anthony Wayne." Wayne's military brilliance helped secure American independence, leading crucial victories at Stony Point and in the Southern Campaign. After the Revolution, he continued serving his country, negotiating treaties with Native American tribes and commanding the Legion of the United States.

But General Wayne's legacy didn't end with American history textbooks.

The Batman Connection

Waynesville shares its name with Batman because in 1939, comic book writer Bill Finger was creating what would become one of the most enduring characters in popular culture: Batman. When it came time to name the Caped Crusader's civilian identity, Finger chose "Bruce Wayne" - a direct homage to General Anthony Wayne.

The connection goes even deeper in DC Comics lore. Bruce Wayne isn't just named after the general - he's depicted as General Wayne's direct descendant, creating a fictional lineage that stretches from Revolutionary War battlefields to the streets of Gotham City.

The Duke Almost Joined the Wayne Legacy

General Wayne's influence on American popular culture extends beyond the Dark Knight. When Marion Morrison was building his acting career in the 1930s, studios initially gave him the stage name "Anthony Wayne" after the famous general. Only later did Fox Studios change it to the name we all know: John Wayne.

What's in a Name?

So when you drive through Waynesville, Missouri - the "Birthplace of the Byway" where Route 66 was first designated as a historic route in 1990 - you're passing through a town that shares its heritage with Batman himself.

It's a reminder that small towns along Route 66 carry stories that connect to the broader fabric of American culture in unexpected ways. From Revolutionary War generals to comic book legends, the history of Waynesville runs deeper than most travelers ever imagine.

Stay tuned for the next episode of "You Don't Know Waynesville," where we'll uncover more surprising facts about this historic Route 66 town.

This is part of an ongoing series documenting obscure historical facts about Waynesville, Missouri, in preparation for the Route 66 Centennial in 2026.