Springfield, Missouri
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| Springfield, Missouri | |
|---|---|
| Name | Springfield, Missouri |
| Settlement type | City |
| Nickname | Queen City of the Ozarks |
| Pushpin label | Springfield |
| Coordinates | 37, 11, 42, N... |
| Subdivision type | Country |
| Subdivision name | United States |
| Subdivision type1 | State |
| Subdivision name1 | Missouri |
| Subdivision type2 | County |
| Subdivision name2 | Greene |
| Established title | Founded |
| Established date | 1838 |
| Established title1 | Incorporated |
| Established date1 | 1838 |
| Government type | Council–manager |
| Leader title | Mayor |
| Leader name | Ken McClure |
| Leader title1 | City Manager |
| Leader name1 | Jason Gage |
| Unit pref | Imperial |
| Area total sq mi | 82.31 |
| Area total km2 | 213.18 |
| Area land sq mi | 82.07 |
| Area land km2 | 212.56 |
| Area water sq mi | 0.24 |
| Area water km2 | 0.62 |
| Elevation ft | 1,306 |
| Elevation m | 398 |
| Population total | 169,176 |
| Population as of | 2020 |
| Population density sq mi | 2,061.1 |
| Population density km2 | 795.8 |
| Timezone | CST |
| Utc offset | -6 |
| Timezone DST | CDT |
| Utc offset DST | -5 |
| Postal code type | ZIP Codes |
| Postal code | 65801–65810, 65814, 65817, 65890 |
| Area code | 417 |
| Blank name | FIPS code |
| Blank info | 29-70000 |
| Blank1 name | GNIS feature ID |
| Blank1 info | 0756798 |
| Website | www.springfieldmo.gov |
Springfield, Missouri. It is the third-largest city in the state and the county seat of Greene County, Missouri. Often called the "Queen City of the Ozarks," it serves as a major economic, cultural, and healthcare hub for southwestern Missouri and the surrounding Ozarks region. The city is home to several universities, including Missouri State University, and is known for its role in the development of U.S. Route 66.
History
The area was originally inhabited by the Osage Nation before European-American settlement. Founded in 1838 by John Polk Campbell, it was named after Springfield, Massachusetts. The city played a significant role during the American Civil War, notably as the site of the Battle of Wilson's Creek in 1861, one of the first major conflicts west of the Mississippi River. In the early 20th century, it became a pivotal point on the iconic U.S. Route 66, fueling growth and tourism. The city also gained national attention in 1906 with the infamous Springfield lynchings and later as the birthplace of the Bass Pro Shops empire, founded by Johnny Morris.
Geography
Located in the Springfield Plateau subsection of the Ozarks, the city's terrain is characterized by rolling hills and karst topography, featuring numerous springs and caves. Major waterways include the James River and Wilson's Creek. The city lies within the Upper White River basin and is part of the larger Springfield–Branson metropolitan area. Its central location has made it a transportation crossroads, historically served by the St. Louis–San Francisco Railway and later by major highways like Interstate 44 and U.S. Route 60.
Demographics
According to the 2020 United States Census, the population was 169,176, making it the most populous city in southern Missouri. The racial makeup is predominantly non-Hispanic white, with significant communities of African American, Hispanic or Latino, and Asian residents. The city is an educational center, anchored by Missouri State University, Drury University, and Evangel University, which contribute to a relatively young adult population. Religious affiliations are diverse, with a strong presence of Southern Baptist and other Protestant denominations.
Economy
The economy is diversified, with major sectors including healthcare, education, manufacturing, and retail. It is the headquarters for several Fortune 500 companies and major brands, most notably Bass Pro Shops and its subsidiary Cabela's. Other significant employers are CoxHealth, Mercy Springfield Communities, and Springfield Public Schools. The city is a regional center for finance and insurance, hosting companies like O'Reilly Auto Parts. Manufacturing remains vital, with plants operated by Kraft Heinz, 3M, and EFCO Corp..
Culture and recreation
The city offers a vibrant arts scene centered on venues like the Springfield Art Museum and the Landers Theatre. It is home to the Springfield Symphony Orchestra and hosts annual events such as the Ozark Empire Fair. Outdoor recreation is prominent, with extensive park systems, the Springfield Conservation Nature Center, and proximity to Table Rock Lake and the Mark Twain National Forest. Sports fans support the Springfield Cardinals, the AA affiliate of the St. Louis Cardinals, and the Missouri State Bears.
Government
It operates under a Council–manager government system. The legislative body is the Springfield City Council, led by the mayor, a position held by Ken McClure. Day-to-day administration is handled by the city manager, Jason Gage. The city government provides a full range of municipal services, including the Springfield Police Department and Springfield Fire Department. It is also the seat of government for Greene County, Missouri, housing the Greene County Courthouse and related offices.
Category:Springfield, Missouri Category:Cities in Missouri Category:County seats in Missouri Category:Ozarks