Introduction to Springfield, Oregon
Springfield, Oregon is 103 miles S of Portland, Oregon. It's located in Lane County between the McKenzie River and the Willamette River and is bordered by the city of Eugene. The city was named after a nearby natural spring. The area is a major supplier of hazelnuts. Retail, manufacturing, health services, agriculture and logging are some of the prominent industries.
Springfield History
Settlers began to arrive in 1847. The first schoolhouse was constructed in 1854. In 1861 a severe flooding of the Willamette River occurred. The city was incorporated in 1885. Weyerhaeuser, a major timber company was established in 1949 and became a prominent employer. However, in the 90's the company's saw mill and veneer facilities were shut down and the paper facility was downsized.
Springfield Attractions
- Springfield Museum has numerous exhibits on the region's timber industry
- Dorris Ranch Living History Farm is the country's oldest hazelnut orchard still in continuos operation and hosts a variety of events and provides tours
- The East Skinner Butte Historic Landmark Area features numerous historic structures
- Shelton McMurphy Johnson House is a notable, historic Queen Anne Victorian mansion
- Washburn Historic District includes a large number of historic buildings
- Conger St. Clock Museum includes a notable clock tower
- Gateway Mall is a popular shopping destination
- The Springfield Filbert Festival features jazz and rock music and the Northwest Harmonica Championship
Springfield Activities
Residents and visitors enjoy touring the wineries located in the lower Willamette Valley. The county is known for its numerous covered bridges. The Lively Park Swim Center is a popular indoor water park. West Eugene Wetlands Education Center is a vast acreage and includes walking and bicycle trails. The McKenzie and Willamette rivers are popular for fishing, rafting, boating and swimming. There are numerous campgrounds in the area including the Timpanogas Lake Shelter, Willamette National Forest and the Warner Mountain Lookout.
Some of the notable nearby trails include the Eagles Rest Trail, the Hardesty Trail and the Teeter Creek Loop. There are numerous locations for whitewater paddling along the Willamette River and along the Row River, Fall Creek and the Calapooia River. Golf enthusiasts enjoy the area's courses including Emerald Valley Golf Club, Laurelwood Municipal Golf Course and Oakway Golf Course.
Springfield Higher Education
University of Oregon, Oregon State University Lane County Extension, Pioneer Pacific College and Lane Community College are nearby.