Springfield: The Heart of Illinois

Springfield is the capital city and cultural hub of the state of Illinois. Located in the central part of the state, Springfield has been an important center of politics, business, and culture for nearly 200 years. Here’s an in-depth look at this historic city.

History

The area that is now Springfield was first settled in the 1810s by fur traders and other pioneers. It was named after Springfield, Massachusetts by settler John Kelly. In 1821, the town was designated as the county seat of Sangamon County and grew quickly over the following decades.

Springfield really rose to prominence in the 1830s and 1840s thanks to one key resident – Abraham Lincoln. Lincoln moved to Springfield in 1837 and spent nearly 25 years living in the city. He worked as a lawyer and became heavily involved in local and state politics. Springfield is where Lincoln delivered his famous “House Divided” speech in 1858. After being elected president in 1860, Lincoln said farewell to Springfield in an emotional speech at the train station.

After Lincoln’s presidency and assassination, Springfield continued to develop into a major transportation and manufacturing hub. It became an important railroad center in the late 1800s. Other major industries like coal mining and food processing located in the city.

Government

As the state capital since 1839, Springfield is home to Illinois state government. The Illinois State Capitol building completed in 1868 is located downtown along with other government buildings like the Governor’s Mansion. The Illinois General Assembly meets at the Capitol. Many state agencies and departments are headquartered in Springfield.

Local government is centered on the mayor-council form. The mayor of Springfield is currently Jim Langfelder. City government provides typical municipal services like police, fire, parks, public works, and utilities. Major employers include state and local government as well as healthcare organizations. The University of Illinois at Springfield is located on the southeast side of the city.

Culture and Entertainment

Springfield enjoys a rich cultural scene thanks to its history and role as the state capital. There are multiple historic sites related to Abraham Lincoln that draw tourists, including Lincoln Home National Historic Site and Lincoln’s Tomb. The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum is a top attraction with exhibits about Lincoln’s life and legacy.

Other cultural venues include the Hoogland Center for the Arts, Prairie Capital Convention Center, and museums like the Illinois State Museum and Illinois Military Museum. Springfield has a symphony orchestra and ballet company.

Springfield’s downtown historic district offers restaurants, bars, and shopping. The Illinois State Fair draws large crowds every August. The fairgrounds host various other events throughout the year. For outdoor lovers, Lincoln Memorial Garden and Lake Springfield provide opportunities for walking, boating, and fishing within city limits.

Location and Transportation

Springfield is located in central Illinois, about 100 miles northeast of St Louis, Missouri Interstates 55 and 72 serve the city and connect it to other major Midwest cities. Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport offers daily flights. Amtrak trains stop at Springfield as well.

The city occupies an area of about 60 square miles and has a population around 115,000 residents. Springfield’s central location and transportation connectivity have helped make it the prosperous capital city it is today. For over 175 years, through the highs and lows of history, Springfield has continued to serve as the heart of Illinois.