Due to the general lack of creativity in geographical names, Vancouver, Washington has long been confused with that "other" Vancouver just a few hours to the north. Local historians will tell you that Vancouver, Washington was named first.
When traveling, Vancouverites often claim to be from Portland to avoid confusion. Portland, Oregon, that is. Those who say they are from Vancouver are just trying to bask in the glow of the more glamorous, and much more cosmopolitan, Canadian city. I freely admit to doing so. Occasionally grassroots activists make valiant, doomed, attempts to get the city to change its name to Fort Vancouver.
Also known as "the other Vancouver," in "the other Washington," across the river from "the other Portland."