Last updated: December 28, 2020
Thing to Do
Walk around the Armory Grounds
Photo Credit: NPS Digital Photo
During the American Revolution Springfield Armory was established as an Arsenal, or a place to store and distribute weapons. In 1794, under George Washington, Springfield Armory transitioned from an arsenal to an armory, and production of firearms began.
Since 1794, the grounds of the Armory have undergone numerous changes including the addition and demolition of buildings and numerous landscaping designs.
As you walk around Armory Square, learn about the history of some of the buildings and of the people who lived and worked here. Scattered through the grounds are wayside signs that detail the history of specific buildings including the Main Arsenal, the Administrative Buildings, and Quarters 1.
How has the Armory changed over time? Can you hear the sounds of the workers milling around? The horses was they pass you by hauling wagons of firearm parts to the Armory for assembly? Do you hear the sounds of the Mill Shops in the background?
Take a trip back in time and visit the Armory when it was was producing firearms and learn about the site that shaped the City of Springfield and the United States.
Since 1794, the grounds of the Armory have undergone numerous changes including the addition and demolition of buildings and numerous landscaping designs.
As you walk around Armory Square, learn about the history of some of the buildings and of the people who lived and worked here. Scattered through the grounds are wayside signs that detail the history of specific buildings including the Main Arsenal, the Administrative Buildings, and Quarters 1.
How has the Armory changed over time? Can you hear the sounds of the workers milling around? The horses was they pass you by hauling wagons of firearm parts to the Armory for assembly? Do you hear the sounds of the Mill Shops in the background?
Take a trip back in time and visit the Armory when it was was producing firearms and learn about the site that shaped the City of Springfield and the United States.
Details
Duration
30 Minutes
Activity
Self-Guided Tours - Walking
Age(s)
5 and Older
Walking around the Armory grounds and reading the wayside signs is a good fit for anyone of any age. The signs are located around Armory Square and the overall length of the walk is under a mile.
Pets Allowed
No
Pets are not allowed unless they are service animals.
Activity Fee
No
Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.
Reservations
No
Season
Year Round
Time of Day
Day
Accessibility Information
The wayside signs are near sidewalks or asphalt paths which are smooth and level. A couple of the signs are located in the grass near the walking paths. In winter not all of the paths are clear of snow.