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Springfield, Massachusetts

Welcome to Springfield, a city rich in history and innovation! We're immensely proud to be the birthplace of basketball and the home of beloved children's author Dr. Seuss. From our historic Armory to vibrant cultural institutions, Springfield truly embodies the spirit of discovery and community.

Founded 1636 | Population 153,703 | Peak 153,703 (2024) | County Hampden County

Top Events in Springfield, Massachusetts

1636 Town Founded: William Pynchon establishes Agawam settlement, later becoming Springfield.

1794 Springfield Armory Established: U.S. Springfield Armory established, a vital firearms manufacturing center.

1891 Basketball Invented: James Naismith invents basketball at the local YMCA Training School.

1968 Basketball Hall of Fame Opens: Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame opens its doors here.

2018 MGM Springfield Opens: MGM Springfield resort opens, revitalizing downtown with entertainment.

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Latest News in Springfield

Feb 13, 2016

Mom and Dad who Neglected Starved Baby Learn Their Fates

BOSTON — In a case that shocked many, a Massachusetts couple faced the consequences of their actions on February 13, 2016, after…

Mar 19, 2015

Woman Whose Car Flipped Over Thinks Man Coming Help Then Sees what Hes

BOSTON — On a rainy March evening in 2015, Sarah Thompson’s drive home took a terrifying turn when her car skidded off the…

Jan 16, 2015

Mom Warns Other Parents After Cvs Medication Debacle Almost Ended Tragedy

BOSTON, Jan. 16, 2015 — A routine pharmacy visit nearly turned tragic for a Massachusetts mom, who says a mix-up at her local CV…

Historical Timeline of Springfield

1636 Government

Town Founded

1794 Economy

Springfield Armory Established

1828 Economy

First Paper Mill Opens

1852 Government

City Incorporated

1891 Culture

Basketball Invented

1937 Culture

Dr. Seuss's First Book Published

1968 Culture

Basketball Hall of Fame Opens

2018 Economy

MGM Springfield Resort Opens

Did You Know? — Springfield

Springfield is famously known as the 'Birthplace of Basketball,' invented by James Naismith in 1891.

The Springfield Armory, established in 1794, was the primary center for manufacturing U.S. military firearms for nearly two centuries.

Beloved children's author Theodor Seuss Geisel, famously known as Dr. Seuss, was born and raised in Springfield, inspiring many of his whimsical tales.

Springfield played a pivotal role in Shays' Rebellion (1786-1787), a significant post-Revolutionary War uprising that highlighted the need for a stronger federal government.

The city is home to the Quadrangle, a unique cultural attraction featuring five museums (including the Amazing World of Dr. Seuss Museum) and a library arranged around a central green.

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