Proposal to rename Hurlingham sparks debate over British origins

A proposal to rename the Argentine city of Hurlingham has sparked debate, driven by an ex-councilor's desire to shed its British origins. Marcelo Suárez Nelson, who served as a local councilor from 2005 to 2009, submitted a preliminary draft to the Deliberative Council suggesting the city be renamed "Partido de la Reconquista."

The current name, Hurlingham, originates from the Hurlingham Club, a British institution founded in the area in 1888. Members at the club played the Irish sport of hurling, which is believed to have given the area its name. Suárez Nelson argues that "Hurlingham" has no discernible meaning and may even refer to an obscure English cemetery, questioning its significance for the city.

Suárez Nelson's proposal is rooted in historical context, particularly referencing the Falklands War and Argentine casualties. He stated that continuing with an English identity ignores Argentine history, claims, and identity. This is not the first time such a proposal has surfaced; a similar initiative was launched in 1982 due to the district's strong ties to English culture.

Hurlingham, established in 1994 after the division of the Morón district, is currently led by Mayor Damián Selci. The city also has cultural significance as the birthplace of the rock band Sumo, which included Luca Prodan and later spawned Divididos and Las Pelotas. The song "Paisano de Hurlingham" by Ricardo Mollo's band is a well-known tribute to the city.

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El nombre de Hurlingham no significa absolutamente nada, no tiene ninguna traducción. Se supone que se remite también y puede pertenecer a un cementerio olvidado en algún lugar de Inglaterra. Pero es incierto su significado