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Springfield, Tennessee
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Springfield is the county seat of Robertson County, Tennessee, United States.[8] It is located in Middle Tennessee near the northern border of the state. As of the 2020 census, the city's population was 18,782.[9]
Key Information
History
[edit]US 431 and US 41 have had different routes through Springfield. US 41 formerly had a more eastern route, now called Old Greenbrier Road. A portion of the old route was abandoned in the 1990s due to landscaping made during the construction of a railroad. The practical usage of the road was replaced by the 17th Avenue Connector. The old pavement is still visible from Bill Jones Industrial Drive. Beyond that, it ran more westerly through downtown Springfield, now called Batts Boulevard and Main Street. A portion of the old route north of downtown was removed due to the construction of a quarry. US 41 was rerouted onto Memorial Boulevard, a 4 lane highway, around 1961 after its completion.
US 431 followed a more eastern route prior to at least 2010 south of Springfield. This route had a different bridge crossing at Carr Creek that has since been demolished. North of the bridge, it followed what is now called Main Street. It intersected US 41 at the junction of what is now Main Street, A C Street, and 11th Avenue. It ran with US 41 after this intersection, until its own rerouting on Memorial Boulevard in 1961. US 431 was rerouted onto Tom Austin Highway around 1983.[10]
Geography
[edit]According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 13.14 square miles (34.0 km2), of which 13.13 square miles (34.0 km2) is land and 0.01 square miles (0.026 km2) (0.08%) is water. Springfield is located at 36°29′58″N 86°52′43″W / 36.49944°N 86.87861°W (36.499508, -86.878717).[11]
According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 12.2 square miles (32 km2), all land.
Climate
[edit]| Climate data for Springfield Experiment Station, Tennessee (1991–2020 normals, extremes 1942–present) | |||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | Year |
| Record high °F (°C) | 77 (25) |
82 (28) |
87 (31) |
89 (32) |
96 (36) |
106 (41) |
106 (41) |
106 (41) |
104 (40) |
97 (36) |
87 (31) |
77 (25) |
106 (41) |
| Mean daily maximum °F (°C) | 45.3 (7.4) |
49.7 (9.8) |
58.9 (14.9) |
69.0 (20.6) |
77.2 (25.1) |
85.1 (29.5) |
88.5 (31.4) |
88.1 (31.2) |
82.3 (27.9) |
71.2 (21.8) |
58.7 (14.8) |
48.7 (9.3) |
68.6 (20.3) |
| Daily mean °F (°C) | 36.2 (2.3) |
39.7 (4.3) |
48.1 (8.9) |
57.8 (14.3) |
66.8 (19.3) |
74.8 (23.8) |
78.4 (25.8) |
77.2 (25.1) |
70.9 (21.6) |
59.4 (15.2) |
48.2 (9.0) |
39.7 (4.3) |
58.1 (14.5) |
| Mean daily minimum °F (°C) | 27.0 (−2.8) |
29.7 (−1.3) |
37.3 (2.9) |
46.6 (8.1) |
56.5 (13.6) |
64.6 (18.1) |
68.3 (20.2) |
66.3 (19.1) |
59.5 (15.3) |
47.5 (8.6) |
37.7 (3.2) |
30.7 (−0.7) |
47.6 (8.7) |
| Record low °F (°C) | −18 (−28) |
−13 (−25) |
1 (−17) |
16 (−9) |
30 (−1) |
40 (4) |
47 (8) |
42 (6) |
31 (−1) |
22 (−6) |
−5 (−21) |
−16 (−27) |
−18 (−28) |
| Average precipitation inches (mm) | 4.25 (108) |
4.47 (114) |
4.82 (122) |
5.34 (136) |
5.64 (143) |
4.26 (108) |
4.36 (111) |
3.72 (94) |
3.76 (96) |
4.17 (106) |
3.77 (96) |
4.73 (120) |
53.29 (1,354) |
| Average snowfall inches (cm) | 1.5 (3.8) |
2.4 (6.1) |
1.2 (3.0) |
0.0 (0.0) |
0.0 (0.0) |
0.0 (0.0) |
0.0 (0.0) |
0.0 (0.0) |
0.0 (0.0) |
0.0 (0.0) |
0.0 (0.0) |
0.7 (1.8) |
5.8 (15) |
| Average precipitation days (≥ 0.01 in) | 11.1 | 10.7 | 12.0 | 11.7 | 11.9 | 10.0 | 9.5 | 8.1 | 8.1 | 8.6 | 9.5 | 11.5 | 122.7 |
| Average snowy days (≥ 0.1 in) | 1.2 | 1.8 | 0.7 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.7 | 4.4 |
| Source: NOAA[12][13] | |||||||||||||
Demographics
[edit]| Census | Pop. | Note | %± |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1890 | 1,372 | — | |
| 1900 | 1,732 | 26.2% | |
| 1910 | 2,085 | 20.4% | |
| 1920 | 3,860 | 85.1% | |
| 1930 | 5,577 | 44.5% | |
| 1940 | 6,668 | 19.6% | |
| 1950 | 6,506 | −2.4% | |
| 1960 | 9,221 | 41.7% | |
| 1970 | 9,720 | 5.4% | |
| 1980 | 10,814 | 11.3% | |
| 1990 | 11,227 | 3.8% | |
| 2000 | 14,329 | 27.6% | |
| 2010 | 16,440 | 14.7% | |
| 2020 | 18,782 | 14.2% | |
| 2024 (est.) | 19,842 | [14] | 5.6% |
| Sources:[15][16][5] | |||
2020 census
[edit]| Race | Number | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| White (non-Hispanic) | 9,690 | 51.59% |
| Black or African American (non-Hispanic) | 3,787 | 20.16% |
| Native American | 31 | 0.17% |
| Asian | 110 | 0.59% |
| Pacific Islander | 6 | 0.03% |
| Other/Mixed | 770 | 4.1% |
| Hispanic or Latino | 4,388 | 23.36% |
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 18,782 people, 6,356 households, and 4,362 families residing in the city.
2010 census
[edit]At the 2010 census there were 16,957 people in 6,212 households, including 3,778 families, in the city. The population density was 1,173.9 inhabitants per square mile (453.2/km2). There were 5,836 housing units at an average density of 478.1 per square mile (184.6/km2). The racial makeup of the city was 70.2% White, 21.4% African American, 0.1% Native American, 0.56% Asian, 0.03% Pacific Islander, 1.76% from other races, and 0.81% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 17.5%.[7]
Of the 5,453 households 31.8% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 45.7% were married couples living together, 18.4% had a female householder with no husband present, and 30.7% were non-families. 25.8% of households were one person and 11.7% were one person aged 65 or older. The average household size was 2.55 and the average family size was 3.00.
The age distribution was 24.8% under the age of 18, 11.2% from 18 to 24, 29.1% from 25 to 44, 20.4% from 45 to 64, and 14.6% 65 or older. The median age was 35 years. For every 100 females, there were 92.9 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 89.1 males.
The median household income was $46,757 and the median family income was $42,018. Males had a median income of $32,270 versus $22,765 for females. The per capita income for the city was $22,611. About 13.7% of families and 19.0% of the population were below the poverty line, including 22.7% of those under age 18 and 17.7% of those age 65 or over.
Recreation
[edit]The City of Springfield Parks and Recreation operates:[18]
- American Legion Park
- Garner Street Park
- J. Travis Price Park
- Martin Luther King Jr. Park
- Springfield Greenway
Government and politics
[edit]Springfield, Tennessee, operates under a council–manager form of government, a system it adopted in 1990. In this structure, the City Manager is appointed by and reports to the elected legislative body and is responsible for overseeing the daily operations of the city’s departments and services.[19]
The city’s legislative authority is vested in a seven‑member Board of Mayor and Aldermen (often abbreviated BOMA), which serves as the principal policy‑making body. The board consists of a Mayor elected at‑large and six aldermen, each representing one of the city’s six wards, all serving four‑year terms. The Board enacts ordinances, resolutions, and major plans, and holds regular meetings, typically on the third Tuesday of each month.[20]
Under the charter, the Mayor presides over Board meetings and serves as the ceremonial head of the city but does not have veto power. Eligibility for elected office requires that the Mayor and aldermen be qualified voters who have resided in the city or their ward for at least one year prior to the election.[20]
The City of Springfield is a full‑service municipality, providing utilities such as electric, natural gas, water, wastewater, and sanitation services directly to residents, and also oversees other departments, including Public Works and Human Resources.[20]
Mayoral elections
[edit]On November 8, 2016, Vice Mayor Ann Schneider defeated Buzzy Poole in the mayoral election by 38 votes.[21] She was sworn in one month later as Springfield's first female mayor, succeeding Billy Paul Carneal. Schneider was re-elected in 2020.
On November 5, 2024, Schneider was defeated in her bid for re-election by Buzzy Poole, losing by 303 votes.[22]
Political makeup
[edit]Springfield votes Republican in statewide elections, but is the least strongly Republican area in Robertson County.[23]
| Year | Republican | Democratic | Third parties |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 59.92% 3,783 | 39.11% 2,469 | 0.97% 61 |
| 2020 | 56.52% 3,746 | 41.90% 2,777 | 1.58% 105 |
| 2016 | 55.39% 3,090 | 40.67% 2,269 | 3.94% 220 |
Education
[edit]The city is served by
- Springfield High School
- Innovation Academy
- Krisle Elementary School
- Cheatham Park Elementary School
- Westside Elementary School
- Bransford Elementary School
- Crestview Elementary School
- South Haven Christian School
The Highland Crest higher education facility is home to Volunteer State Community College and Austin Peay State University.
Sports
[edit]In 1923, Springfield hosted a Minor League Baseball team of Kentucky–Illinois–Tennessee League called the Springfield Blanket Makers.[25]
Infrastructure
[edit]Transportation
[edit]- Highways
/
U.S. Route 431 / Tennessee State Route 65[a] (Tom Austin Highway)
/
U.S. Route 41 / Tennessee State Route 11[b] (Memorial Blvd)
Tennessee State Route 76
Tennessee State Route 49
Tennessee State Route 25 (Lakeview Rd)
Tennessee State Route 161
US 41 and US 431 are the major north-south highways running through Springfield, and both run southward to Nashville. US 41 runs north from Springfield to Cedar Hill, Adams and the Kentucky state line at Guthrie. US 431 runs north to Russellville, Kentucky. The major east-west highways are State Route 76 (SR 76) and State Route 49 (SR 49). State Route 76 is mainly unsigned throughout the entire town and runs concurrently with SR 49 and US 41. It runs east from Springfield to White House and Interstate 65. State Route 49 (SR 49) runs through Springfield and intersects US 41. It runs west to Coopertown and Interstate 24. It runs east to Orlinda and Interstate 65 via State Route 52. Other minor state routes in the Springfield area are State Route 25 (SR 25) and State Route 161 (SR 161).[26]
Airport
[edit]Springfield Robertson County Airport is a local airport north of Springfield adjacent to US 41. There are no commercial flights to or from the airport.
Medical
[edit]- TriStar NorthCrest Medical Center
Notable people
[edit]- David Alexander, president of Pomona College and administrator of the Rhodes Scholar program, was born in Springfield[27]
- Edward Butler, Army officer in the American Revolution and former acting Inspector General of the United States Army, died in Springfield
- Richard Cheatham, Whig Congressman from Tennessee, was a Springfield native and resident. His children included:
- Boyd M. Cheatham, member of Tennessee's legislature, Springfield native and resident
- Edward Saunders Cheatham, member of Tennessee's legislature, Springfield native and resident
- Richard Boone Cheatham, member of Tennessee's legislature, born in Springfield, was later Mayor of Nashville
- Jeff Fosnes, record-setting Vanderbilt University basketball star, medical doctor
- Daniel E. Garrett, born near Springfield, lawyer and politician
- Albert Hadley, interior designer and decorator, was born in Springfield
- Charles Hartmann, New Orleans jazz trombonist and union activist, died in Springfield
- Paul Henderson, African-American photojournalist, was born in Springfield
- Alice Vassar LaCour, African-American teacher and singer, was principal of an American Missionary Association school in Springfield for former slaves
- Bill Monroe, musician called the "Father of Bluegrass", died in Springfield
- Romeo Nelson, boogie woogie pianist, was born in Springfield
- Jasen Rauch, Christian rock guitarist and songwriter, lives in Springfield
- Bill Sanders, award-winning editorial cartoonist, was born in Springfield
- Tracy Smothers, professional wrestler, was born in Springfield
- Harry Underwood, self-taught "outsider artist", has his home and studio in Springfield
References
[edit]- ^ "Welcome to Springfield". springfield-tn.org. Retrieved November 18, 2019.
- ^ "History of Springfield | Springfield, TN - Official Website". www.springfieldtn.gov. Retrieved September 20, 2023.
- ^ "ArcGIS REST Services Directory". United States Census Bureau. Retrieved October 15, 2022.
- ^ a b U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Springfield, Tennessee
- ^ a b "Census Population API". United States Census Bureau. Retrieved October 15, 2022.
- ^ "City and Town Population Totals: 2020-2024". Census.gov. Retrieved January 7, 2026.
- ^ a b "U.S. Census website". United States Census Bureau. Retrieved January 31, 2008.
- ^ "Find a County". National Association of Counties. Retrieved June 7, 2011.
- ^ "Explore Census Data". data.census.gov. Retrieved November 22, 2022.
- ^ "Get Maps".
- ^ "US Gazetteer files: 2010, 2000, and 1990". United States Census Bureau. February 12, 2011. Retrieved April 23, 2011.
- ^ "NowData - NOAA Online Weather Data". National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Retrieved September 25, 2021.
- ^ "Station: Springfield Exp Stn, TN". U.S. Climate Normals 2020: U.S. Monthly Climate Normals (1991–2020). National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Retrieved September 25, 2021.
- ^ "City and Town Population Totals: 2020-2024". Census.gov. Retrieved January 7, 2026.
- ^ "Census of Population and Housing: Decennial Censuses". United States Census Bureau. Retrieved March 4, 2012.
- ^ "Incorporated Places and Minor Civil Divisions Datasets: Subcounty Resident Population Estimates: April 1, 2010 to July 1, 2012". Population Estimates. U.S. Census Bureau. Archived from the original on June 11, 2013. Retrieved December 11, 2013.
- ^ "Explore Census Data". data.census.gov. Retrieved December 26, 2021.
- ^ "Parks & Recreation | Springfield, TN - Official Website". www.springfieldtn.gov. Retrieved January 20, 2026.
- ^ "Government | Springfield, TN - Official Website". www.springfieldtn.gov. Retrieved January 12, 2026.
- ^ a b c "Board of Mayor & Aldermen | Springfield, TN - Official Website". springfieldtn.gov. Retrieved January 12, 2026.
- ^ "Springfield mayor race decided by 38 votes". The Tennessean. November 8, 2016.
- ^ "Election Results". News Channel 5 Nashville (WTVF). Retrieved November 11, 2024.
- ^ Wines, Luke. "The 2024 Election at a Precinct Level". VoteHub. Retrieved January 12, 2026.
- ^ "Historical TN City Data". Daves Redistricting. Retrieved January 12, 2026.
- ^ "1923 Springfield Blanket Makers Roster". Stats Crew. Retrieved May 27, 2020.
- ^ "Springfield, Tennessee" (Map). Google Maps. No URL entered.
- ^ Hevesi, Dennis (July 30, 2010). "David Alexander, Overseer of Rhodes Selection, Is Dead at 77". The New York Times. Retrieved August 2, 2010.
External links
[edit]Springfield, Tennessee
View on GrokipediaHistory
Founding and early development
Springfield was designated as the seat of Robertson County upon the county's formation on April 9, 1796, by the Tennessee General Assembly, honoring James Robertson, a key figure in early Cumberland settlements. The town site, comprising fifty acres, was surveyed and laid out into lots in 1798, marking its formal establishment amid a landscape of frontier agriculture and pioneer migration from states like Virginia and North Carolina. Early inhabitants focused on subsistence farming and land clearance, with the Red River providing vital resources for settlement.[4][5][6] The initial development centered on establishing civic infrastructure, including a log courthouse completed around 1803 to serve judicial and administrative functions for the growing county population. By the early 1800s, Springfield emerged as a modest trading hub, benefiting from its central location within Robertson County's fertile soils suited to tobacco and hemp cultivation, though large-scale plantations developed later. Settlement patterns reflected broader Tennessee frontier dynamics, with families like the Bells and Crocketts among early arrivals contributing to community formation through land grants and local governance.[5][7] Formal incorporation as a municipality occurred in 1819, enabling organized municipal governance and spurring modest expansion, including the appointment of early mayors and the plotting of public squares. This period saw population growth from dozens to several hundred residents by the 1820s, driven by county seat status rather than industry, with the economy rooted in small-scale farming and rudimentary commerce. Challenges included Native American tensions resolved by prior treaties and the vulnerabilities of frontier life, yet Springfield's strategic positioning laid foundations for sustained regional importance.[8][9]19th-century growth and Civil War era
Springfield experienced gradual expansion in the early 19th century, driven by its role as Robertson County seat and agricultural commerce. Initially slow-growing, the town had approximately 100 residents by 1835, reflecting limited early settlement amid frontier conditions.[10] Incorporation in 1825 formalized governance, with re-incorporation in 1845 establishing a mayor and aldermen system to support infrastructure like schools and mills.[10] Robertson County's population rose from 4,228 in 1810 to over 16,000 by 1850, fueled by tobacco cultivation—a labor-intensive crop reliant on enslaved workers—which became the dominant commercial product by 1820.[4] Local distilleries and flour mills emerged, processing grains and producing whiskey, though significant industrial scaling occurred post-war.[10] The arrival of the Edgefield and Kentucky Railroad in 1859 marked a pivotal boost, connecting Springfield to Nashville and Kentucky markets, facilitating tobacco and livestock transport.[11] This infrastructure spurred merchandising and small manufacturing, including sawmills and brickworks, diversifying beyond subsistence farming.[10] During the Civil War era, Springfield's strategic rail position drew military focus. Robertson County voters initially opposed secession in March 1861 but approved it nearly unanimously by May, prompting formation of Confederate units like Companies C and I of the Fourteenth Tennessee Infantry at Camp Cheatham.[10] Approximately 1,200 county men served in Confederate forces, including regiments captured at Fort Donelson in 1862.[10] Union troops occupied the town in March 1862 following the federal victories at Forts Henry and Donelson, establishing a base to guard the Edgefield and Kentucky Railroad against Confederate raids; operations included a quartermaster depot and use of local structures like the First Presbyterian Church for military purposes.[12] The occupation disrupted courts—no sessions until 1865—and destroyed records, while skirmishes and foraging strained the agricultural economy, though no major battles occurred locally.[10] Union control persisted until late 1863, with U.S. Colored Infantry present by war's end.[10]20th-century industrialization and agriculture
In the early 20th century, agriculture dominated Springfield's economy, with tobacco cultivation serving as the primary cash crop in Robertson County. The region specialized in dark-fired tobacco, a labor-intensive variety cured over open fires using hardwood, which earned Robertson County the moniker "Home of the World's Finest Dark Fired Tobacco." This crop underpinned local prosperity, as evidenced by the 1928 harvest, which generated approximately $5 million for area farmers amid favorable market conditions and high demand for pipe and chewing tobacco.[13][14] Farms typically combined tobacco with livestock rearing and corn production, but the former's profitability drove seasonal labor patterns, including family involvement in harvesting and curing processes that persisted through the mid-century.[15] Industrialization gained traction after 1900, diversifying Springfield's economic base beyond farming. The Springfield Woolen Mills, established in 1903, represented the county's inaugural major factory, producing textiles and employing local workers in mechanized operations that contrasted with agrarian rhythms. This facility capitalized on regional wool resources and proximity to rail lines for distribution, fostering initial urban growth. Complementing this, the Springfield Wagon Company rose as a prominent manufacturer, specializing in wooden wagons for agricultural transport and innovating early trailers, which sustained hundreds of jobs during peak operations in the early to mid-20th century before competition from automobiles contributed to its eventual decline.[4][16][17] Post-World War II expansion accelerated manufacturing, with Zenith Radio Corporation opening a facility in 1966 that introduced electronics assembly and employed over a thousand workers at its height, drawing on federal incentives and improved infrastructure like highways. This shift reduced reliance on volatile tobacco prices, which faced federal quotas and global competition by the 1960s, while integrating Springfield into broader Tennessee supply chains. Agricultural output, though diminished in relative terms, coexisted with industry, as many residents maintained dual roles in farming and factory work until late-century mechanization and policy changes further eroded tobacco's dominance.[18][17][15]Post-2000 expansion and challenges
Springfield's population grew from 14,329 in the 2000 census to 18,782 by 2020, reflecting a 31% increase driven by its proximity to Nashville and regional economic spillover.[19] [20] By 2023, estimates placed the population at 18,985, with continued annual growth of about 1.1-1.2%, outpacing many similar-sized Tennessee municipalities.[1] This expansion paralleled broader Middle Tennessee trends, where the 10-county region doubled from under 1 million residents in 1989 to nearly 2 million by 2019, fueled by job opportunities in logistics, manufacturing, and services.[21] Economically, Springfield benefited from industrial park developments and incentives aimed at attracting manufacturing and commercial enterprises, building on its agricultural roots.[22] The North Industrial Park offered developable land tracts, supporting steady business influx and housing construction, with tourism emerging as a growth sector tied to local history and events like the Robertson County Fair.[23] Median household income rose from $55,392 in 2022 to $58,000 by 2023, indicating modest prosperity amid employment in advanced manufacturing and related fields concentrated in Robertson County.[1] [24] Rapid growth, however, strained infrastructure, including roads and drainage systems, as residential and commercial developments outpaced upgrades in a city classifying as a Phase 3 municipality under Tennessee's payment-in-lieu-of-taxes framework, which values only post-2003 infrastructure additions.[25] Regional pressures exacerbated environmental and fiscal challenges, with expanding populations increasing demands on public services without proportional revenue gains in some areas.[26] Local planning efforts, including a 20-year comprehensive growth plan initiated in the 2020s, sought to address these through zoning and development controls, though implementation faced typical hurdles of balancing expansion with sustainability.[27]Geography
Location and topography
Springfield serves as the county seat of Robertson County in northern Middle Tennessee, positioned approximately 30 miles northwest of Nashville and near the Kentucky state line.[2] The city's geographic coordinates are roughly 36.50°N latitude and 86.88°W longitude.[28] It encompasses a total land area of 12.9 square miles, entirely land with no significant water bodies within municipal limits.[29] The topography of Springfield features gently rolling hills characteristic of the Middle Tennessee plateau, with elevations averaging 669 feet (204 meters) above sea level.[30] [31] The surrounding landscape includes karst features from underlying limestone formations, contributing to fertile soils that have historically supported agricultural activities in Robertson County, which spans 476 square miles of similar terrain.[32] [33] This undulating topography transitions from the Nashville Basin to the north toward the Highland Rim, with minimal extreme relief and drainage primarily into tributaries of the Cumberland River.[34]Climate and environmental factors
Springfield, Tennessee, features a humid subtropical climate classified under the Köppen system as Cfa, marked by four distinct seasons with hot, humid summers and relatively mild winters influenced by its inland location in the Nashville Basin. Average annual temperatures hover around 57.7°F, with extremes ranging from a typical January low of 29°F to a July high of 88°F; temperatures rarely drop below 14°F or exceed 94°F based on historical observations.[35][36] Precipitation averages 51 inches annually, occurring on about 120 days per year and distributed relatively evenly, though spring months like May see peaks up to 5.6 inches on average; snowfall totals approximately 5 inches yearly, primarily in winter. These patterns contribute to lush vegetation but also elevate risks of seasonal flooding, as demonstrated by the May 2024 event in Robertson County where 8 to 12 inches of rain triggered widespread flash flooding alongside an EF1 tornado.[37][38][39] The region faces heightened tornado vulnerability compared to Tennessee and national norms, with Springfield's risk rated much higher due to its position in a corridor prone to severe thunderstorms; flood modeling indicates 9.8% of local properties at risk over the next 30 years from riverine and flash events. Air quality remains generally favorable, with current AQI levels often in the "good" range and only minor projected increases in poor days (AQI >100) under climate projections, while water quality in servicing utilities meets federal standards per environmental assessments, though localized agricultural runoff poses occasional concerns.[40][41][42][43]Demographics
Population trends and census data
The population of Springfield, Tennessee, has demonstrated consistent decennial growth since 2000, reflecting suburban expansion in Robertson County. The 2000 U.S. Census counted 14,389 residents.[19] By the 2010 Census, this figure had risen to 16,440, an increase of 2,051 people or 14.3%.[19][44] The 2020 Census recorded 18,782 inhabitants, marking a further gain of 2,342 or 14.2% over the previous decade.[44]| Census Year | Population | Absolute Change | Percent Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2000 | 14,389 | — | — |
| 2010 | 16,440 | +2,051 | +14.3% |
| 2020 | 18,782 | +2,342 | +14.2% |
Racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic composition
As of 2023 estimates, Springfield's population of approximately 18,985 residents exhibits a racial and ethnic composition dominated by White non-Hispanic individuals at 48.6%, followed by Black or African American non-Hispanic at 20.4%, and Hispanic or Latino of any race at 24.9%.[1] Smaller proportions include those identifying as two or more races (non-Hispanic) at about 3%, Asian at under 1%, and American Indian or Alaska Native at similarly low levels.[1] [45] This distribution shows a notable Hispanic population growth in recent decades, driven by migration patterns in Middle Tennessee manufacturing and agriculture sectors, contrasting with slower growth among non-Hispanic groups.[20] Socioeconomically, Springfield displays indicators of a working-class community with challenges in income and poverty. The median household income reached $58,741 in 2023, reflecting modest gains from prior years but remaining below both Tennessee's statewide median of around $64,000 and the national figure exceeding $70,000.[1] [46] The per capita income stood at $33,872, underscoring disparities in earnings distribution.[47] Poverty affects 20.8% of the population, higher than the U.S. average of about 12% and linked to factors such as limited higher-wage job opportunities and family structures in lower-income brackets.[1] [46] Homeownership rates are 56.4%, indicative of stable but constrained housing access amid rising property values averaging $235,200.[1] Educational attainment aligns with socioeconomic patterns, with high school completion common but advanced degrees less prevalent. American Community Survey data reveal that roughly 85% of adults aged 25 and older hold at least a high school diploma or equivalent, while bachelor's degree or higher attainment hovers around 13-15%, trailing state and national averages where over 30% possess such credentials.[46] These levels correlate with the local economy's reliance on trades and entry-level manufacturing, limiting upward mobility without external commuting or retraining.[1]| Racial/Ethnic Group (2023 est.) | Percentage |
|---|---|
| White (Non-Hispanic) | 48.6% |
| Hispanic or Latino (any race) | 24.9% |
| Black or African American (Non-Hispanic) | 20.4% |
| Two or More Races (Non-Hispanic) | ~3% |
| Asian | <1% |
| Other | <1% |
Economy
Historical economic base
Springfield's historical economic foundation rested primarily on agriculture, with fertile soils supporting crop cultivation and livestock from the county's establishment in 1796. Early settlers focused on diversified farming, including corn, wheat, and initially cotton, but tobacco emerged as the dominant cash crop by the early 19th century, leveraging the region's rolling hills and clay-rich soils ideal for dark-fired tobacco production. Robertson County, with Springfield as its seat, became renowned for this specialty tobacco variety, which required unique curing methods involving open fires, driving local prosperity through sales at auction warehouses and exports.[4][49][50] Tobacco farming not only anchored the economy but also shaped social and infrastructural development, with Springfield serving as a key market hub where farmers converged seasonally for sales, fostering ancillary businesses like warehousing, transportation, and mercantile trade. By the mid-19th century, tobacco had supplanted cotton as the county's premier commodity, contributing to economic stability amid fluctuations in other sectors, though vulnerability to market prices and weather persisted. Livestock rearing, particularly cattle, complemented crop agriculture, providing additional revenue streams through local and regional markets.[4][49][50] The transition toward light industry began modestly in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, with the establishment of the Springfield Woolen Mills in 1903 marking the first significant factory operation, processing local wool into textiles and signaling diversification from pure agrarian dependence. This built on agricultural outputs like wool from sheep farming, yet agriculture—especially tobacco—remained the bedrock, employing the majority of the workforce and dictating fiscal health until broader industrialization accelerated post-World War II.[4]Current industries and employment
Manufacturing dominates the economy of Springfield, Tennessee, with over 1,498 residents employed in the sector as of 2023, representing the largest employment category.[1] Other significant sectors include retail trade, employing 1,132 people, and construction, with 1,033 workers.[1] Total employment in Springfield grew by 7.46% from 2022 to 2023, increasing from 8,090 to 8,690 employees.[1] Major employers in Springfield and surrounding Robertson County focus on manufacturing, including Electrolux Home Products, which produces household appliances; IAC International, specializing in automotive components; Martinrea International, Inc., involved in metal stamping and assembly; and Schrader/Sensata Electronics, manufacturing sensors and valves.[51] Additional key firms include Bath Fitter, producing bathroom products; Hail & Cotton, a metal fabrication company; and Dorman Products, supplying automotive aftermarket parts.[52] These industries benefit from proximity to Nashville, facilitating logistics and supply chains, though local workforce development emphasizes training in advanced manufacturing skills.[53] Unemployment in Robertson County stood at 3.1% in August 2025, below the state average and reflecting a tight labor market.[54] Median annual earnings in the county were $40,414 in 2023, with manufacturing roles often providing stable, skilled positions amid ongoing recruitment for new facilities.[55] Recent expansions, such as those in automotive and appliance production, have added hundreds of jobs, though reliance on manufacturing exposes the area to cyclical demand fluctuations.[56]Growth drivers and fiscal realities
Springfield's economic expansion has been propelled by its position within the Nashville metropolitan statistical area, facilitating commuter access to higher-wage jobs in the regional hub while attracting logistics and manufacturing firms seeking affordable land and labor proximate to urban markets. The city's North Industrial Park offers developable tracts at $17,000 per acre, supported by utilities including water, wastewater, electricity, natural gas, and proximity to the Springfield-Robertson County Airport, enabling efficient distribution operations. Manufacturing dominates employment sectors, with 1,498 residents engaged in the field as of recent data, encompassing sub-industries such as cooking appliances at Electrolux, automotive parts via Dorman Products and Johnson Electric, electronics, material handling, and OEM components.[22][1][51][52] Population influx, rising 1.12% from 18,775 in 2022 to 18,985 in 2023 and averaging 1.17% annual growth thereafter, bolsters residential and commercial demand, expanding the local tax base and supporting retail (1,132 employed) and construction (1,033 employed) sectors. Healthcare anchors stability through NorthCrest Medical Center, employing nearly 700 directly and generating indirect jobs via supply chains. Robertson County's broader initiatives, including site readiness, incentives, and a growing workforce of over 38,000 amid a county population exceeding 77,000, amplify Springfield's appeal as the county seat by fostering business retention and recruitment in distribution, where 3,500 are employed county-wide.[1][20][57][58][24] Fiscal conditions reflect prudent management amid growth pressures, with the city's fiscal year 2023 audit reporting total revenues of approximately $93 million against expenses of $78.3 million, yielding a $14.7 million increase in net position to $204 million. Long-term debt stood at $84.8 million, reduced by $5.2 million from the prior year, comprising governmental ($15.4 million) and business-type ($69.3 million) obligations, while maintaining an unmodified audit opinion and low-risk status for federal programs. The city sustains operations without recent property tax increases, contrasting Robertson County's 2023 adjustment for inflation and retention, though no hike occurred for fiscal year 2025; a low overall tax burden aids competitiveness.[59][60][61][62]Government and politics
Municipal structure and administration
Springfield, Tennessee, operates under a council-manager form of government, adopted in 1990, featuring a seven-member Board of Mayor and Aldermen (BOMA) as the legislative body.[63] The BOMA consists of a mayor elected at-large and six aldermen, each representing one of the city's six wards.[64] [63] This structure vests the board with ultimate authority over policy decisions, ordinances, resolutions, taxation, franchises, and public services, while prohibiting interference in administrative appointments.[64] [65] Elections for mayor and aldermen occur every four years on the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November of even-numbered years, with terms staggered so half the board faces election biennially.[64] [65] Candidates must be qualified voters with at least one year of residency in the city (for mayor) or their respective ward (for aldermen), and they cannot hold other public offices except notary public or military reserve roles.[64] [65] The mayor presides over meetings, held on the third Tuesday of each month, and votes on all matters without veto power; the board internally elects a vice mayor biennially.[64] [65] Administrative operations are directed by a city manager, appointed by the BOMA and serving at its pleasure after an initial 12-month term, who oversees daily functions, appoints department heads, prepares budgets, enforces laws, and manages staff.[63] [65] The city manager reports directly to the BOMA and coordinates multiple departments, including administration, finance, public works, and utilities.[63] [66] As a full-service municipality, Springfield provides essential services such as police and fire protection, animal control, planning and community development, cemeteries, city court, and public works including sanitation.[63] [67] The city owns and operates its electric, natural gas, water, wastewater, and stormwater utilities, serving residents, small commercial customers within city limits, and extending water and gas to portions of Robertson County.[63] [68] These utilities are managed through dedicated departments to ensure reliable infrastructure support.[63]Electoral history and political leanings
Robertson County, encompassing Springfield, has demonstrated strong Republican leanings in federal elections, with voters supporting Republican presidential candidates by wide margins in recent cycles. In the 2016 presidential election, Donald Trump received 19,393 votes (approximately 74.5%) in the county, compared to 6,634 votes (25.5%) for Hillary Clinton.[69] This pattern persisted in subsequent elections, aligning with the county's shift from supporting Al Gore in 2000 to consistent Republican majorities thereafter.[70] The area's conservative index, rated at 147.9 on a scale where higher values indicate greater conservatism, underscores a preference for limited government and traditional values.[70] Springfield's municipal elections are nonpartisan, focusing on local issues rather than party labels, yet they occur within this broader conservative context. The city is governed by a board of mayor and aldermen, with the mayor and select ward aldermen elected to four-year terms.[64] Recent mayoral races have been competitive: in 2016, Ann Schneider narrowly defeated Buzzy Poole by 38 votes (2,523 to 2,485), reflecting close community divisions on governance priorities.[71] Poole successfully challenged the incumbent (now Schneider Williams) in 2024, securing victory in a citywide contest amid broader county support for Republican state and federal officials, including Representative Sabi Kumar (R) for House District 66.[72][73]| Election Year | Key Local Race | Winner | Margin/Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2016 Mayoral | Ann Schneider vs. Buzzy Poole | Ann Schneider | 38 votes[71] |
| 2024 Mayoral | Buzzy Poole vs. Ann Schneider Williams | Buzzy Poole | Unseated incumbent[72] |

