5 Fun Facts About Springfield: How Well Do You Know Your City?

Known as the “City of Firsts,” Springfield is a thriving city that is rich in cultural and historical landmarks, and offers a wide range of attractions. If you’re new to the city or a long-time resident, brush up on your trivia skills with these interesting facts about Springfield, MA.

1. Springfield is the birthplace of basketball

If you love kicking back and watching an NBA game with friends or playing a game of basketball on the weekends, you have physical education instructor James Naismith to thank. He invented the indoor sport in 1891 at the International YMCA Training School in Springfield. The sport’s popularity grew rapidly through the 20th century, followed by the establishment of the NBA in 1946.

2. There’s a sculpture garden dedicated to Dr. Seuss here

Theodor Seuss Geisel, famously known as Dr. Seuss, was born in Springfield in 1904. The Dr. Seuss National Memorial Sculpture Garden opened in 2002, 11 years after his passing, and features some of his most beloved characters.

3. The first American dictionary was created in Springfield

Merrriam-Webster, the oldest dictionary publisher in the U.S., was founded in 1831 in Springfield, MA as G & C Merriam Co. It acquired the rights to Noah Webster’s “An American Dictionary of the English Language” after his death in 1843 and has since published numerous dictionaries. In 1964, it was acquired as a subsidiary by Encyclopedia Britannica, Inc. and changed its name to Merriam-Webster, Inc. in 1982.

4. You can experience a slice of Vegas in Springfield

MGM Springfield is a hot spot for entertainment and nightlife for both visitors and locals living in Springfield. If you’re craving a taste of Vegas without making the trip, you’ll get your fix here. There are plenty of entertainment options, including a casino, concert venues, and a handful of restaurants.

5. Springfield is home to the nation’s first armory

Commissioned by George Washington, the Springfield Armory began manufacturing its own muskets in 1794. Now known as the Springfield Armory National Historic Site, you’ll find the world’s largest collection of historic American firearms.