Programs & Events

South Center Street Walking Tour

Saturday, August 22, 2026
10:00 AM to 11:30 AM

Guided by Dale Henry and Kevin Rose / Mobility 2

$15 General / $12 Members

In the late-nineteenth century, Springfield had one of the largest Black populations in the North. Many of these residents settled in or around South Center Street, a Black neighborhood dating back to the 1820s. Join us on a walking tour of this once vibrant neighborhood and learn about some of the remarkable people who once called it home, including C.M. Patterson, Robert C. Henry, and George and Sarah Gammon. We will end by looking at how community leaders are working to reverse the decline caused by decades of discriminatory policies. Meet outside the Church of Jesus, 620 South Center Street.

BUY A TICKET

 

Join the Westcott Center for Architecture + Design as we celebrate our region’s distinctive architecture and history with our annual Summer Tour Series.

Please be advised that we do not mail tickets. You will receive an order confirmation by email. You will be automatically added to the attendee list upon the completion of your order.

Accessibility:

Our tours and programs are developed for a broad audience, including those with disabilities and decreased mobility. Tours move at a leisurely pace with brief periods of standing at tour stops. If entering a building or house, some stairs or inclines may be possible. All tours are assigned mobility levels between 1-3. 

Mobility Level 1
Up to 6 blocks walking, mostly flat terrain, paved, stairs not likely. Wheelchair accessible.

Mobility Level 2
May be more than 6 blocks walking, some hills, mostly paved, some stairs possible. Please call or email about wheelchair accessibility.

Mobility Level 3
Considerable walking, various terrains, unpaved areas. All bicycle tours. Please call or email about wheelchair accessibility.

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