Springfield, a city in Sangamon County to the south of Sangamon River, was originally named after Senator John C. Calhoun of South Carolina. The city received its final name only in 1832 after the senator fell from public favor. This pioneer settlement started in 1820 when John Kelly built the first cabin at the northwest corner of Second and Jefferson Streets. Gradually people from North Carolina, Virginia and Kentucky arrived at the city to take advantage of the area’s fertile soil and trading opportunities.
With the Civil War, Springfield witnessed growth of new industries and businesses. The railroad system also improved with important link roads being established. Coal mining became an important vocation for the people along with politics and farming. It is the capital of Illinois and a well developed economic base. The city has some important names in the fields of health care, services, and education.

Elevation: 600 feet

Land area: 54.0 square miles

Latitude: 39.78 N

Longitude: 89.65 W

Population: 115,668 (as on July 2005)

Local festivals include:

• Illinois State Fair - Aug. 11-20, 2006
  
  
• Indian Summer Festival - Oct. 14-15, 2006
  
  
• International Route 66 Mother Road Festival - Sept. 22-24, 2006
  
  
• Ethnic Festival - Sept. 1-3, 2006

Springfield attractions: Lincoln Memorial Garden, Henson Robinson Zoo, Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum