Springfield, Ohio
Springfield was settled about 1800 by a group of Kentuckians, including the frontiersman and American Indian scout Simon Kenton. Kenton's wife named the town for the numerous springs found there.
After the road came through in 1838 it became known as the "town at the end of the National Pike." Now US 40, the pike connected Springfield with industrial cities as far east as Cumberland, MD, and opened new markets for the city's harvests. Agricultural machinery firms set up shops, and slowly Springfield's complexion changed from rural to industrial. Its industries have diversified, producing turbines, engines, and piano plates. Wittenberg University adds a college-town flavor to this bustling city.
Springfield Museum of Art, 107 Cliff Park Rd. houses temporary exhibits and a permanent collection of 19th and 20th-century American art. Classes and an art library are also featured. Guided tours are available. Allow 1 hour minimum. TUE-FRI 9-5 and also WED evening 5-9, SAT 9-3, SUN 2-4. Closed major holidays. Free. Phone 937.325.4673.
Weaver Chapel, part of Wittenberg University, is off of Woodlawn Ave. This chapel is known for its leaded stained-glass windows. Allow 30 minutes minimum. Daily 8-5. Free. Phone 937.327.7411.
