Ten fun facts about Springfield

1. Springfield, Illinois: The Second Most Populous City in Illinois

Springfield, Illinois is the second most populous city in the state, coming in just behind the Chicago Metropolitan Area. With a population of 116,250, Springfield is a bustling city with plenty of attractions and activities to offer its residents. From the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum to the Illinois State Capitol, Springfield is a great place to live and visit. With its rich history and vibrant culture, Springfield is a great place to call home.

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2. Springfield and the Sangamon Valley: A Literary Landmark

The city of Springfield and the Sangamon Valley have a long and proud literary tradition, with many famous authors having called the area home. Abraham Lincoln, Vachel Lindsay, Edgar Lee Masters, John Hay, William H. Herndon, Benjamin P. Thomas, Paul Angle, Virginia Eiffert, Robert Fitzgerald and William Maxwell are just some of the renowned writers who have lived and worked in Springfield and the Sangamon Valley. Their works have helped to shape the literary landscape of the area, and their legacies continue to inspire readers today.

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3. The Cozy Dog: A Springfield Tradition

The city of Springfield is renowned for its unique culinary offerings, particularly the corn dog on a stick. Popularly known as the "Cozy Dog", this snack is said to have been invented in Springfield, although there is some dispute as to its true origin. Regardless, the Cozy Dog has become a beloved staple of Springfield's food culture, and is enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.

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4. Springfield, Illinois - The Most Populous City in Central Illinois

Springfield, the largest city in central Illinois, is a vibrant and bustling metropolis. With a population of over 116,000, Springfield is the third most populous city in the state and is home to a wide variety of attractions, from the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum to the Illinois State Capitol. The city is also known for its diverse culture, with a variety of restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues. Springfield is a great place to live, work, and play, and is sure to provide an unforgettable experience for all who visit.

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5. The History of a City

In the late 1810s, when Illinois was officially declared a state, European Americans began to settle in the area that is now known as Springfield. This marked the beginning of the city's long and rich history, which has seen it become the capital of the state and the home of the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum. Springfield has grown to become a vibrant city, with a population of over 116,000 people and a wide range of attractions, from the Illinois State Capitol to the Dana-Thomas House.

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6. Lincoln in Springfield

Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States, is the most famous past resident of Springfield, Illinois. He lived in Springfield from 1837 until 1861, when he was elected to the White House. During his time in Springfield, Lincoln practiced law, served in the Illinois General Assembly, and met his future wife, Mary Todd. His time in Springfield was also marked by his strong opposition to the expansion of slavery, which would eventually become a major issue in his presidential campaign.

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7. Springfield, Illinois: A Historic Site for Lincoln Fans

Springfield, Illinois is a popular tourist destination due to its many historic sites connected with Abraham Lincoln. Visitors can explore the Lincoln Home National Historic Site, the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, the Lincoln Tomb, and the Lincoln-Herndon Law Offices State Historic Site. Other attractions include the Old State Capitol State Historic Site, the Lincoln-Douglas Debate Site, and the Lincoln-Davis Monument. With so many sites to explore, Springfield is a must-see destination for anyone interested in learning more about the life and legacy of the 16th President of the United States.

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8. Springfield Renamed: Bye Bye Calhoun

Originally, the city of Springfield was named Calhoun, after the prominent South Carolina Senator John C. Calhoun. Calhoun was a major figure in the early 19th century, serving as a Senator from 1832 to 1843 and as Vice President of the United States from 1825 to 1832. He was a staunch defender of slavery and states' rights, and his name was chosen to honor his legacy in the city of Springfield. However, in 1839, the city's name was changed to Springfield, in order to avoid any association with Calhoun's controversial views.

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9. Lake A Major Contributor to Springfield's Economy

The city of Springfield, Illinois is home to the largest municipally owned utility in the state - Lake Springfield. This 4,200-acre man-made reservoir provides the city with a reliable source of water for its citizens, and is a major contributor to the local economy. It is also a popular recreational destination, offering fishing, boating, and other outdoor activities. With its size and importance, Lake Springfield is a key part of the city's infrastructure and identity.

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10. Vachel Lindsay: A Wandering Poet

Vachel Lindsay, the renowned poet and author, was born in Springfield, Illinois in 1879. He is best known for his poem “The Congo” and a booklet called “Rhymes to be Traded for Bread”, which was a collection of his own poems. Lindsay was a wandering poet, travelling across the United States and Europe, and his works were highly influential in the early 20th century. He was also a major proponent of the “free verse” style of poetry, which was a radical departure from the traditional poetic forms of the time.

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