Phenomenon: Springfield

Springfield is a very common name for towns in the United States. It is so common that the television show, The Simpsons is set in a town generically named "Springfield", creating an intentional mystery around what state the show is set in. This is a long-standing tradition. As early as the 1950s the radio/television program, Father Knows Best, was set in a generic "Springfield".

Springfield in The Simpsons was founded in 1796 by settlers who were trying to find a passage to Maryland after mis-interpreting a passage in the bible. In its early days, the city was the target of many Indian raids, and to this day many forts and trading posts remain (including Fort Springfield and Fort Sensible).

In Wisconsin, four towns are named Springfield. Spread over all other states, you will find another 23 Springfields. More Springfields in Scotland, Ontario Canada, England and Australia.

And, of course, there's Dusty Springfield. Probably the most wonderful Springfield of them all.