by Mason A. Green
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Springfield was founded in 1636 by English Puritan William Pynchon and was named after his hometown of Springfield, Essex, in England. It is one of the oldest cities in the United States and played a significant role in the early colonial history of the country.
Later, it became a center for manufacturing during the 19th and early 20th centuries, with industries such as firearms production, automobile manufacturing, and numerous other industries. Springfield is considered the birthplace of basketball. The game was invented by Dr. James Naismith in 1891 while he was teaching at the International YMCA Training School in the city.
Like any city, Springfield has faced its share of challenges over the years, but it remains an important urban center in western Massachusetts with a rich history and cultural significance. This work by Mason A. Green offers insight into Springfield’s early history.
This new edition is dedicated to Mark Hambley, able and creative diplomat with Springfield ties,
Westphalia Press 