Metro Center in Springfield in Hampden County, Massachusetts — The American Northeast (New England)
A "Magnificent Mansion"
Springfield Armory National Historic Site
— National Park Service, U.S. Department of the Interior —
Photographed By Devry Becker Jones, August 5, 2023
1. A "Magnificent Mansion" Marker
In 1845, commanding Officer James W. Ripley and his family moved into a new residence, the large brick home you see in front of you. In addition to serving as the Armory leaders' residence, the home included servants and housekeepers for much of its existence.
Ripley's opponents labeled his new residence a "magnificent mansion." As controversy grew, numerous investigations and ultimately a military court of inquiry scrutinized Ripley. Among the charges were extravagance and waste of government funds in the construction of the residence, but ultimately Ripley was cleared.
Throughout his term as commanding officer, Ripley stroked controversy with his aggressive decisions, and building his elaborate home was no exception.
[Captions:]
The home's large size allowed for two drawing rooms or parlors where armory leaders could entertain important visitors to the armory.
For nearly 170 years, the house served as the residence of 34 commanding officers and superintendents and their families. Pictured here is Colonel Hoffer and family mid-1919.
The grounds and gardens of the armory served as a gathering place for the community. That tradition continues today.
Erected by National Park Service, U.S. Department of the
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Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Law Enforcement • Military • Notable Buildings. A significant historical year for this entry is 1845.
Location. 42° 6.459′ N, 72° 34.953′ W. Marker is in Springfield, Massachusetts, in Hampden County. It is in Metro Center. Marker can be reached from Armory Street. The marker is on the combined campus of Springfield Technical Community College and the Springfield Armory National Historic Site. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 1 Armory St, Springfield MA 01105, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Master Armorer's House (a few steps from this marker); Hay Road (within shouting distance of this marker); Main Arsenal (within shouting distance of this marker); From Arsenal to Icon (within shouting distance of this marker); Working for Perfection (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line); Armory Square (about 300 feet away); Springfield (about 400 feet away); The Military Presence (about 600 feet away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Springfield.
Related marker. Click here for another marker that is related to this marker. This marker has replaced the linked marker.
Photographed By Devry Becker Jones, August 5, 2023
2. A "Magnificent Mansion" Marker
Credits. This page was last revised on August 14, 2023. It was originally submitted on August 14, 2023, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia. This page has been viewed 62 times since then and 14 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on August 14, 2023, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia.
