Springfield Armory
National Historic Site


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PARK NAME:
Springfield Armory National Historic Site

BRIEF DESCRIPTION:
Established on March 21, 1978 to preserve the history of the first National Armory, 1794 - 1968. Springfield Armory technology profoundly affected the lives of soldiers and civilians. Armory arms decided battle tactics. They were essential in all major conflicts in U.S. History. Armory inventions revolutionized the manufacture of consumer products like keys, shoes, baseball bats and furniture. Housed in the original Main Arsenal, the museum maintains one of the most extensive and unique firearms collections in the world. Special exhibits, events and film. Public and school programs. Springfield Armory National Historic Site encompasses approximately 55 acres and several buildings of the original armory complex. The central attraction is the Arsenal building, # 13, constructed in the 1840's. The weapons collection housed in the Main arsenal was started about 1870 by Col. J.G. Benton as a technical "library" for armory personnel. It is now regarded as the Nation's largest collection of small arms.

VISITATION:
Highest in June, July, and August; lowest in January

LOCATION:
Located in Western Massachusetts. On the corner of State and Federal streets via the main entrance to the campus of Springfield Technical Community College.

ADDRESS:
Springfield Armory NHS One Armory Square Springfield, MA 01105-1299

TELEPHONE:
(413) 734-8551

OPERATING HOURS, SEASONS:
All Year: Open Wednesday - Sunday 10 - 4:30pm

Closed on January 1st, Thanksgiving Day, and December 25th.

CLIMATE, RECOMMENDED CLOTHING:
On average temperature ranges for Winters are generally 20 - 38. Spring, 30-50, Summers, 56-86. Fall, 32-74. Weather in New England is unpredictable. Layer your clothing. Showers are likely, so pack an umbrella. Be prepared for snow in Winter, mud in Spring, beautiful foliage colors in Fall and pleasant Summers.

DIRECTIONS:
The Springfield Armory is within a short drive of several interstate highways.

FROM THE NORTH: I-91 SOUTH TO EXIT 5, BROAD STREET. Turn left at bottom of ramp. Turn left at first traffic light. Follow blue directional signs. FROM THE SOUTH: I-91 NORTH TO EXIT 4, BROAD STREET. Follow blue directional signs. FROM THE EAST: MASS. PIKE TO EXIT 6. TAKE I-91 SOUTH TO EXIT 5, BROAD STREET. Turn left at bottom of ramp. Turn left at first traffic light. Follow blue directional signs. FROM THE WEST: MASS. PIKE TO EXIT 4. TAKE I-91 SOUTH TO EXIT 5, BROAD STREET. Turn left at bottom of ramp. Turn left at first traffic light. Follow blue directional signs..

TRANSPORTATION:
City buses operate along State Street and connect with the railroad station and intercity bus terminal. From downtown Springfield buses travel up State Street approximately every 15 minutes. Telephone the Pioneer Valley Transit Authority 413-781-7882 for schedule. Taxi service available from all Hotels, bus and train stations.

FEES, COSTS RATES:
ADMISSION FREE
Donations Appreciated

FACILITIES AND OPPORTUNITIES:
Museum: Orientation exhibit and site bulletins on selected Armory subjects, Information Desk, Eastern National Books and Other Products, such as historical and technical books, posters, and videos. Theater, 18 minute historical film, Computer generated graphic videos, Public Programs (throughout year), School Programs (upper Elementary, Middle, High School) and Self guiding Walking Tour of historic buildings and grounds surrounding the Armory.

ACCESSIBILITY:
The museum is accessible including the rest rooms. Captioned film.

RECOMMENDED ACTIVITIES/PARK USE:
Walking tour. Film/Theater, 3 special exhibits per year featuring Springfield Armory history, school programs, and public programs.

RESERVATIONS/PERMITS:
Golden Age, Golden Eagle, and Golden Access passes are available.

BASIC VISIT RECOMMENDATIONS:
Two hours minimum is recommended to visit the Museum and grounds.

SPECIAL EVENTS/PROGRAMS:
Go to Coming Attractions


VISITOR IMPACTS:
Information on hours, events, closures are available by calling the Park at 413-734-8551.

ADJACENT VISITOR ATTRACTIONS:
Basket Ball Hall of Fame, Springfield Libraries and Museum, Indian Motorcycle Museum, Smith & Wesson Academy, Courses, Exhibits, Store and Factory Tour. Please seeGreater Springfield Convention Visitor Bureau and Civil War Soliders and Sailors System

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
For general information concerning Springfield Armory National Historic Site write (or e-mail) to:

Superintendent
Springfield Armory NHS
One Armory Square
Springfield, MA 01105-1299

Telephone: 413-734-8551 Fax: 413-747-8062

E-mail your comments or questions to SPAR_INTERPRETATION@NPS.GOV


Springfield Armory NHS was authorized Oct. 26, 1974 and established March 21, 1978.

Acreage- 54.93