Springfield, Massachusetts
Popularly known as the birthplace of basketball, Springfield, Massachusetts is located in the county seat of the Hampden County and the third largest city in the state. Home to about 690,000 people, the city is located in the state’s southern/central area. The city boasts a bustling economy and is the headquarters of the Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance, the second largest Fortune 500 company. When moving to the Springfield, The City of Firsts, you will soon find yourself in a city with a rich history and cultural background.
Economy:
Springfield’s thriving economy is one of the reasons many are interested in moving to the city. The background of Springfield as an economically successful city remains visible presently; the city has been successful in maintaining this reputation. Manufacturing still remains important, yet is being overshadowed by the service industry. The industries in the city are diverse, ranging from law, education, healthcare, banking, plastics, technology, insurance and many more. Companies such as the Smith & Wesson Corp., Big Y Foods, Merriam-Webster Inc., and the Massachusetts Mutual life Insurance Corporation are headquartered in Springfield. The manufacturing industry in the city produces firearms, stationery, envelopes, chemicals, machinery, electrical equipment, automobile accessories, forged metals, games, toys, educational equipment, rubber goods and printed matter.
History:
Contrary to popular belief, Springfield was not founded by Jebadiah Springfield but by William Pynchon. In 1636, at the junction of the Connecticut and Agawam rivers, Pynchon bought the lands encompassing Agawam, West Springfield, Longmeadow and Springfield from the Indians. Pynchon, who hailed from Roxbury, intended to use these lands for establishing a trading and fur-collecting post. By 1641 Springfield became a town and was named so as a tribute to Pynchon’s birthplace in England. About two centuries later Springfield became a city in the May of 1852.Because of its location, Springfield successfully flourished. From an agricultural and fur-trading community, Springfield became an industrial town. Mills of all kinds and a strong labor force sprung up in the 18th century. The area was technologically advanced, thus the U.S. Armory chose Springfield to be its headquarters. By the 19th century, the city became a major railroad center, resulting to another boom in the economy. Printing, machine production, insurance and finance were among the industries that blossomed in the city. Because of this, Springfield’s popularity grew and so did the quality of education in the area. Today, these assets still remain most especially banking, finance and law courts.
Tourism:
Springfield’s history and culture contribute greatly to the city’s tourism. Springfield is a haven for sports/basketball enthusiasts, especially since the city is the birthplace of basketball. The Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame is a popular tourist destination. The Springfield Armory National Historic Site is another of these popular destinations, known for housing the largest collection of American military firearms. Other attractions include museums such as The Connecticut Valley Historical Museum, The George Walter Vincent Smith Art Museum, The Museum of Fine Arts and The Springfield Science Museum. The Dr. Seuss National Memorial, the City Stage theatre and The Zoo in Forest Park are other must visit places in the city. The 3 County Fair in September and The Hoop City Jazz & Art Festival in July are some festivities to watch out for in the city.
Colleges/Universities:
• Springfield College
• American International College
• Western New England College School of Law
Interesting Facts:
• Springfield is home to the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. The Hall of Fame has inducted 303 Coaches, Players and Referees.
• Springfield is also home to Theodor Geisel, most known as"Dr. Seuss." He was born to Theodor Robert and Henrietta Geisel.
• The Morgan Horse, the state horse of Massachusetts, was descended from a stallion born in Springfield back in 1789.
Helpful Links:
• Springfield Real Estate
• Springfield Storage Facility
• Springfield Insurance
• Springfield Dental Offices
• Springfield Moving Companies