The Heritage Center: Paving the way to progress in Springfield

The growth of the popularity of bicycles led to a rebirth for the National Road as organizations like The League of American Wheelman. PHOTO COURTESY OF THE CLARK COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY

Credit: HANDOUT

Credit: HANDOUT

The growth of the popularity of bicycles led to a rebirth for the National Road as organizations like The League of American Wheelman. PHOTO COURTESY OF THE CLARK COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY
Lifestyles
April 9, 2018
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The National Road literally paved the way for Springfield, allowing for the settlement of the area.

But by the turn of the century, the road suffered from disrepair and lack of maintenance.

Explore»»The Heritage Center: Springfield’s legendary Gus Sun

The growth of the popularity of bicycles led to a rebirth for the National Road as organizations like The League of American Wheelman, formed in 1880, came together to fight for a more uniform and modernized road system.

Explore»»The Heritage Center: Signs of the past

With the help of the Good Roads Association, their efforts inspired a national crusade for better roads. The bicycles on display at the Heritage Center help to tell the story of this revival, and also help to highlight social changes of the era.

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