Springfield, MA

This mid-sized city in central Massachusetts was named for Springfield, England. According to 2007 estimates, the city is home to approximately 150,000 residents, making it among the four largest cities in all of New England. Known for its rich history, Springfield has traditionally been a center for firearms manufacturing, and served as a crucial arsenal for the Continental Army during the American Revolution.

In 2006, Springfield was named the 4th Greenest City in America in a survey conducted by Country Home Magazine.

NEIGHBORHOODS AND DISTRICTS

Springfield is nicknamed "The City of Homes," because of its abundance of housing alternatives. Dwellings in the city range from historic to contemporary. The city is comprised of vibrant neighborhoods, each with its own special character and nuance. Typically Springfield is divided into 17 distinct neighborhoods. From the desirable neighborhood of Atwater Park, with its small residential area showcasing elegant Tudors and Colonials, to Indian Orchard, which originated as a mill village in the 1840s and has since evolved into an artists' colony, the city contains an eclectic mix of neighborhoods to suit all tastes and financial situations. In Springfield, residents can take advantage of the expansive parks and forestry system. There are year-round recreational activities in the parks including ice-skating, sports leagues and after-school programs. There are two public golf courses, with a variety of private country clubs nearby. The Connecticut River, which divides Springfield from West Springfield, offers opportunities for boating and other water sports. Residents and visitors have numerous opportunities for biking and walking as well, as the city boasts a vast network of trails and pathways.

ECONOMY AND INDUSTRIES

With its heavy focus on manufacturing, Springfield's economy has been declining for more than 50 years and the city's unemployment rate has typically been higher than the national average. The leading industries in Springfield are educational services, health care, social assistance, manufacturing and retail. Major companies in and around the city are Baystate Health, Big Y Foods, Breck Shampoo, Indian Manufacturing Company and Peter Pan Bus Lines. Carrying on Springfield's long tradition as a firearms manufacturing center, Smith & Wesson is headquartered in town.

FOR VISITORS

• Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame: The game of basketball takes center stage in Springfield, the birthplace of the popular American sport. From Dr. James Naismith's invention of basketball in 1891 to the fast-paced modern version of the sport, the Basketball Hall of Fame offers the visitor a glimpse into all facets of the game.
• Dr. Seuss National Memorial Sculpture Garden: The Dr. Seuss National Memorial Sculpture Garden, located at the Springfield Quadrangle, showcases five bronze sculptures, including one in which Dr. Seuss himself works at his drawing board, the Cat in the Hat standing at his side as his muse. Other favorite Dr. Seuss characters such as Yertle the Turtle, the Grinch, Horton the Elephant, and Things One and Two are also represented. Dr. Seuss was the pen name of Theodore Seuss Geisel, a native of Springfield.
• Springfield Armory National Historic Site: Overlooking the Connecticut River in western Massachusetts, The Springfield Armory National Historic Site offers an important historical recounting of the nation's first armory. In this large museum, year-round public programs, special events and exhibits showcase almost two centuries of pioneering American military arms manufacturing.
• The Hatikvah Holocaust Education Center: This educational facility serves as a living memorial to the victims of the Holocaust. Here the past is examined so that all can learn from it and become more aware of present dangers to freedom and human rights.
• The Forest Park Zoo: The Forest Park Zoological Society features both indigenous and exotic animals in their natural settings. The society offers educational programs for all ages, including live exhibits of animal collections and gardens. The Zoo focuses on conservation of natural resources and protection of various endangered animal species.
• The Titanic Museum: Established in 1963, the Titanic Historical Society is dedicated to preserving the rich history of the epic disaster. The museum is the first permanent exhibition of rare Titanic artifacts and documents donated by survivors.

ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT

The world-class Springfield Symphony Orchestra offers regular performances for the music aficionado. Dozens of other music venues in Springfield also offer live musical entertainment in all genres. Concerts to suit all tastes are held throughout the summer in the Downtown area, as well as in the many city parks of Springfield. Theater enthusiasts will enjoy Springfield's City Stage and Panache Players.

EVENTS

• Bright Nights: Springfield's Bright Nights has been named one of the American Bus Association's Top 100 Events in North America. This event is now known for having New England's largest holiday lighting display, with over 500,000 lights illuminating roughly 2.5 miles of Springfield's historic Forest Park. The Bright Nights Gift Stop offers refreshments and souvenirs.
• The Big E: One of New England's most notorious autumn traditions is this large fair, which offers top name entertainment, major exhibits, The Big E Circus, New England history and agriculture, animals, rides, shopping, crafts, a daily parade, a Mardi Gras parade, and foods from around the world over a two-week span.

EDUCATION

Springfield College boasts an international reputation as a pioneer in teaching and scholarship related to physical education, wellness, and the training of YMCA executives. Western New England College, American International College and Springfield Technical Community College are also located in the city.

LOCAL MEDIA

Springfield's local television stations:

• WGBY TV 57 (PBS)
• WWLP TV 22 (NBC)
• WGGB TV 40 (ABC)

Newspapers serving Springfield:

• Springfield Reminder
• Springfield Republican