What's the correct pronounciation of Havre de Grace, MD? If you pronounce that the way it looks, a) Americans will look at you and wonder how you make that sound in your throat, and b) Marylanders won't have any idea what town you're talking about even if you're standing in Havre de Grace at the time. Similar problems for Notre Dame. (If I've just seen either of those written, I have to remind myself to pronounce them like an Amerrk'n the next time I say them.)
OTOH some places have multiple pronounciations. For example, Bal'mer, Bawlmer, Ballym'r, Baltimor, Bawl-tee-more, and Bahmr are all pronounciations you'll hear from folks who live in Baltimore.
Well, that's rather my point - it's ridiculous to get angry that one is more 'correct' in such an instance, and insist that people have no idea how to pronounce such things. If so, I'd have a damn field day with all the horrible mutilisations that Americans make of towns with Welsh names, in this area.
Regardless, I think the case of 'New Orleans' is entirely different than 'Baltimore'.
(no subject)
OTOH some places have multiple pronounciations. For example, Bal'mer, Bawlmer, Ballym'r, Baltimor, Bawl-tee-more, and Bahmr are all pronounciations you'll hear from folks who live in Baltimore.
(no subject)
Regardless, I think the case of 'New Orleans' is entirely different than 'Baltimore'.