Springfield was founded in 1882 by Captain James Dawson Spearman. After serving with distinction during the Civil War, Spearman settled on a farm 1 1/2 miles south of Springfield's present location. In 1873, upon learning that the Missouri Pacific Railroad would be built in the area, he immediately purchased 160 acres of land. By 1882, Springfield boasted a population of 300 and by the turn of the century proudly displayed a large hotel, an Opera house, general store, two banks, three boarding houses, a hospital, two livery stables, and several saloons.
Springfield is located between Lincoln and Omaha in Eastern Nebraska, southeast of Gretna and south of Interstate 80. Take exit 440 from I-80, and travel about 5 miles South on hwy 50.
Springfield is a city which operates under the Mayor-Council form of government. The Council Members are the lawmakers. They adopt all ordinances and determine the policies of the City. The City Administrator holds the combined offices of City Administrator/Clerk/Treasurer and is the administrative head of the City government under the direction of the Mayor and City Council.