Springfield

The Springfield Historic District is Jacksonvilles oldest neighborhood with a known establishment date of 1869. It was the first area to be built outside of the citys original core. And it was once home to Jacksonvilles wealthiest residents, including several silent film stars. If Springfield looks grand and vintage to you, thats because it IS – in all the best ways!

You likely know that Jacksonville experienced a massive fire called “ Great Fire” in 1901 that devastated much of downtown and left many residents homeless. Following that event, Springfield was quickly on the rise and became a very desirable neighborhood leading to a construction boom that lasted for twenty years. In the remaining beautiful old homes from that time, you will find styles including Queen Anne, Colonial Revival, and Bungalow. Because of the neighborhoods commitment to preservation, its been recognized as a federally historic district. Even if you arent in the market for a home in Springfield, driving around the neighborhood is a must for appreciating the history and architecture of our city!

But it isnt just the architecture that draws people to Springfield. This area is home to a vibrant arts scene, including many murals and public art installations everywhere. And Springfield hosts an annual event called PorchFest, a music festival where local musicians perform on porches, giving the event a real community feel and celebrating local talent. Walking around Springfield during Porchfest – or any evening, really – gives you a strong sense of the community and the “ that this part of town offers. Its no wonder Springfield has attracted a younger crowd in recent years.

There is also plenty of outdoor space in this neighborhood. Henry J. Klutho Park, along Hogans Creek, was named after the architect who played an important role in rebuilding Jacksonville after the Great Fire. The park offers a green oasis in the heart of Springfield, and features Jacksonvilles first StoryWalk (an outdoor experience that combines reading and physical activity), a baseball field, tennis courts, and the Springfield Disc Golf Course.

Springfields culinary scene is diverse and fun. Local favorites include Uptown Kitchen & Bar, known for Southern comfort food, and Social Grounds Coffee, a veteran-owned café that roasts its own beans. The District SPR is an American restaurant by Chef Marvin Barnes that has generated lots of culinary buzz. This neighborhood has an urban food feel in the evenings and can be a fun place to go.

Finally, Springfielders' are a close-knit community who really care about local development and revitalization. The diverse population makes the area welcoming and dynamic.

If Springfield sounds like a good fit for you, call me – I can show you an amazing range of properties at different price points and a mix of historic and new homes. It will be a fun day of house-hunting in this unique area!