Springfield is a city with a long and storied history From its early beginnings as a fur trading post, to becoming the capital of Illinois, to being the hometown of Abraham Lincoln, Springfield has played an important role in the history and development of the state and the nation Even today, Springfield continues to be a center of business, government, and culture for the region.
A Brief History
The area that is now Springfield was first settled by trappers and traders in the early 1800s, drawn to the spot on the Sangamon River by the abundance of beavers and other wild game. In 1821, the first cabin was built there, and over the next decade more settlers arrived, establishing farms and trades.
The town was originally named “Calhoun” after Senator John C. Calhoun, but in 1832 changed its name to Springfield, likely named after Springfield, Massachusetts. That same year, Springfield was designated the new county seat of Sangamon County.
Springfield grew quickly, thanks to its fertile soil and location near trading routes Abraham Lincoln moved to Springfield in 1837 and soon became a lawyer and active politician there. In 1839, Springfield was named the capital city of Illinois, largely due to Lincoln’s efforts
During the Civil War, Springfield became a major hub for recruiting and training Union soldiers. Lincoln lived in Springfield until he became President in 1861. His home still stands today as a historic landmark. Other notable Springfield residents have included Ulysses S. Grant and Confederate General Sterling Price.
In the early 1900s, Springfield was home to a race riot and the “Springfield Utopia” social experiment. The city continued to grow in population and industry throughout the 20th century. Today it remains an important economic and cultural center in the state.
Springfield as State Capital
As the state capital, Springfield is home to the Illinois state government, including the Illinois State Capitol building, the office of the Governor, the Supreme Court and General Assembly. Having state government based there provides many jobs for local residents. Various state agencies and offices have headquarters in Springfield, along with lobbying firms and organizations that interact with state government.
The presence of state government also brings a lot of visitors to Springfield, including legislators, lobbyists, activists, school groups and tourists. Springfield provides ample hotels, restaurants, and attractions to serve government workers, visitors, and residents alike.
Major points of interest related to state government include the Old State Capitol where Lincoln served, the Executive Mansion historic governors residence, and the Illinois State Library. The University of Illinois at Springfield also has a campus in the city.
Abraham Lincoln and Springfield
Beyond its role as state capital, Springfield is most famous for being the hometown of Abraham Lincoln for over 25 years. Lincoln moved to Springfield as a young lawyer in 1837, and soon became a leader in the Whig Party and Illinois legislature.
Many of the places associated with Lincoln still stand today as historic sites, including his home, his law offices, the church he attended, and Oak Ridge Cemetery where he is buried. The Lincoln Home National Historic Site offers tours of Lincoln’s home and neighborhood. At the Lincoln Tomb in the cemetery, visitors can see the president’s final resting place.
The outstanding Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum contains the world’s largest collection of Lincoln artifacts and chronicles his life and legacy. Walking tours, historical markers and statues throughout the city commemorate Lincoln’s time living there.
Culture and Attractions
In addition to the plethora of Lincoln sites, Springfield offers a variety of other cultural and recreational attractions. The Dana-Thomas House, designed by renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright, showcases the Prairie design style. The Springfield Art Association and Hoogland Center for the Arts provide venues for the arts.
Lake Springfield offers boating, fishing and swimming. Numerous parks and nature areas in the region provide opportunities for hiking, cycling and wildlife viewing. Sporting events, festivals, a children’s zoo and concerts round out Springfield’s many attractions.
Springfield also has a lively food scene with farm-to-table restaurants, craft breweries, cafes, diners and more. Route 66 passes right through the city as well.
Springfield Industry and Business
While state government and tourism drive much of Springfield’s economy, the city has seen growth in other industries in recent decades. Health services, insurance, finance, education, and construction are major employers today. Springfield still maintains a strong manufacturing presence, including printer cartridge producer Maranda Inc. and sports equipment manufacturer Phoenix Bat Company.
Major hospitals provide medical care while health insurance companies like Blue Cross Blue Shield have regional offices in Springfield. With government expanding, lobbying shops and law firms have opened downtown. The University of Illinois Springfield brings jobs in education.
Finance and insurance providers such as Horace Mann and Security Finance call Springfield home. Construction has bolstered the local job market as well. Springfield’s central location and affordability make it attractive for business.
Springfield Armory
One of Springfield’s most iconic businesses is the historic Springfield Armory. Founded in 1777, the armory produced firearms for the U.S. military for nearly 150 years. It supplied troops with muskets and rifles through the Civil War, World Wars I and II. After closing in 1968, its name was adopted by privately-owned Springfield Armory, Inc. in 1974.
Today, Springfield Armory manufactures civilian firearms, especially the popular M1A rifle. The company honors its history through historic reproductions and naming guns after Springfield and government ties. Springfield Armory remains a point of pride for the city today.
Springfield Looking Forward
Springfield has come a long way from its early frontier days while still celebrating its rich history. Looking to the future, Springfield aims to continue growing its economy and improving city amenities. Technology and green jobs are targeted for growth.
Revitalization projects downtown, new recreational trails, and high-speed rail service will help enhance livability. Expanded public transit and new cultural events will make Springfield more vibrant. Government, education, healthcare, finance, and manufacturing will remain strong pillars in the local economy. Springfield’s community spirit and storied past will carry it forward to future prosperity.
Holy Day Mass, Monday, December 9, 2024
FAQ
Is Springfield in Illinois or Missouri?
Springfield, Illinois, is the largest city in central Illinois and home to 117,000 people. It is best known for being the home of our 16th President Abraham Lincoln and the place where President Barack Obama began his political career.
Is Springfield a city or town?
Where is Springfield in The Simpsons take place?
Matt Groening, who created the well-known cartoon “The Simpsons,” says that Springfield, Oregon, is the city that the Springfield of his show was based on.
What are the tourist attractions in Springfield?
Several sites related to Abraham Lincoln are popular tourist spots. These include the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, the Lincoln Home National Historic Site, the Lincoln-Herndon Law Offices State Historic Site, and the Lincoln Tomb at Oak Ridge Cemetery. Springfield lies in a valley and plain near the Sangamon River.
What is the history of Springfield?
It was started by English Puritan William Pynchon in 1636 as “Agawam Plantation,” which was run by the Connecticut Colony.
Where is Springfield located?
Springfield is a city in Lane County, Oregon, United States. Located in the Southern Willamette Valley, it is within the Eugene-Springfield Metropolitan Statistical Area.
What is the population of Springfield?
It is the 266th largest city in the United States and the sixth largest city in Illinois, with 116,250 people. The median home value in Springfield is $133,400, and the median rent is $800 a month. This makes Springfield one of the least expensive cities in Illinois.
