Author Archives: editor

Aetna Foundry and Machine Shops

Posted on March 18, 2013 by editor

The Aetna Foundry and Machine Shops, established in 1848 by a partnership named Lowry, Lamb & Co., operated for most of its existence at the southwest corner of Second and Adams streets in Springfield. John C. Lamb became sole owner in 1855. … Continue reading →

Posted in Business, Coal mines and mining, Industry | Tagged , , | 2 Comments

Donner Party: Emigrant tragedy

Posted on March 18, 2013 by editor

The Donner Party left Springfield to emigrate to California in mid-April 1846 but became stranded in deep snow near present-day Truckee, Calif. The group’s experience is remembered primarily because, before the surviving members of the expedition were rescued, some of … Continue reading →

Posted in Disasters, Early residents, Markers, Prominent figures | Tagged , , , , | 10 Comments

Certificates of Freedom

Posted on March 18, 2013 by editor

Many early black residents of Sangamon County were former slaves. Below are some of the certificates of freedom they were issued by their former owners or, in some cases, by judicial action. Note that Phoebe “Feba” Rountree Fleurville referred to … Continue reading →

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Bowling alleys

Posted on March 17, 2013 by editor

Organized bowling certainly was offered in Springfield by 1874 and perhaps even as early as the 1860s. The Greater Springfield Bowling Association web site formerly included an extensive list of Springfield-area bowling establishments over the years, with about 45 of them … Continue reading →

Posted in Amusements, Sports and recreation | Tagged , | Leave a comment