MARCH, University of Cincinnati, 2021, Design, Architecture, Art and Planning: Architecture
Springfield, Ohio was a flourishing industrial city during the first half of the 20th century. It was home to large manufacturing companies including Champion Farm Equipment, which eventually became International Harvester, and Crowell-Collier Publishing, which published periodicals such as Women's Home Companion, The American Magazine, and Collier's.
When manufacturing was declining across the nation in the late 20th century, Springfield was among many other cities that struggled in the changing economy. These cities are known as legacy cities. Springfield is small among comparison with some of the larger legacy cities, such as Detroit and Pittsburgh, but it still faced the same challenges. Springfield's population has been decreasing since 1970, and the economic challenges continued into the 21st century.
Now, Springfield, Ohio is “The Unhappiest City in America” according to a 2012 Gallup Poll, which may be more anecdotal than factual, but be that as it may, it brings an opportunity to consider what Springfield truly is instead of what it was.
This project aims to rebrand a city in the here and now, rather than in the past. It challenges the notions of city branding and marketing that are desperately clinging to the past. It calls for embracing the fact that Springfield is not what it once was, instead of encouraging the hope that the large manufacturers that once fueled the local economy might come back. Lastly, it builds upon the characteristics and efforts that are demonstrating success in the current economy. This includes a small arts district in the downtown core, and a proposed annual festival that will put Springfield back on the map.
Committee: Michael McInturf M.Arch. (Committee Chair); Elizabeth Riorden M.Arch. (Committee Member)
Subjects: Architecture