Springfield

Springfield sits in western Oregon within the Willamette Valley, east of Eugene and along the McKenzie River. The municipality extends between forested hills and agricultural plains, crossed by wide streets and residential neighborhoods of single-family homes.

Elias and Mary Briggs settled in the area in 1848 and named the site after a natural spring in an open field. The settlement developed through timber industry and became officially incorporated in 1885, with proximity to Eugene shaping its growth throughout.

The Emerald Art Center occupies a renovated 1930s building and hosts rotating exhibitions by contemporary artists from the Pacific Northwest. Neighborhoods between Main Street and Pioneer Parkway display growing mural projects created through local initiatives to revive the downtown area.

Most parts of the municipality are accessible by car, with free parking commonly found near shops and public buildings. Local bus routes connect central areas to surrounding residential neighborhoods and offer rides to neighboring Eugene.

The municipality inspired Matt Groening, creator of The Simpsons television series, who grew up in the nearby area and incorporated many street names and details into his show. References appear especially in downtown areas where fans of the series may recognize connections.

Location: Lane County

Inception: 1885

Elevation above the sea: 138 m

Website: http://ci.springfield.or.us

GPS coordinates: 44.04611,-123.02194

Latest update: December 13, 2025 17:40