Historic Commercial Street, affectionately called C-Street, is Springfield, Missouri’s premier Historic District. C-Street was the original bustling railway hub for North Springfield and Springfield, Missouri.
The Atlantic and Pacific Railroad, the area’s first railroad, came to North Springfield in 1870. It bypassed Springfield and laid its tracks a mile north to establish the “new” town of North Springfield. A commercial district sprang up around the railroad depot and the street was thus named “Commercial.”
Commercial Street had a colorful reputation. Many Springfield businesses moved to North Springfield after 1870 to do business with the railroad. Saloons, hotels and mercantile stores opened to cater to rail personnel, inhabitants and travelers. It was the place to go for good food and stocked shops. It became a part of the City of Springfield in 1887.
Today, Commercial Street is booming area with lofts, a variety of businesses, restaurants, and special events. It is a thriving community of artists, professionals, craftsmen, teachers and students.