I actually don't find this one bit unusual.
I lived in Texas for 3 years for a good job. When my neighbor asked me where I was from I said New England -- figured he would know that. A state, I would never think they would know -- imagine. So, he said you are from Tennessee?? Well, OK. What can you possibly say??
I think it is a matter of exposure. People in Europe, most parts of the Northeast and California, plus a few other areas and states are in a complete and total different world than most of the people in our country.
I really don't have an explanation for it except exposure. It really is shocking. If the people in the midwest don't even know where NE is, do you think they have a clue about the issues facing our country??? Could someone explain to me why the people in the midwest are just so flat out dumb??? OK, they lack culture, but does that mean you have to be dumb???
Oh, Texas, Indiana, same story. Been to both places. Nice enough, but do you have a BRAIN???