MA, USA

Springfield Armory National Historic Site

Museum

The site of the nation's first federal armory, established by George Washington in 1777. The armory manufactured weapons for the Continental Army and continued production for nearly two centuries. The museum houses one of the largest historic firearms collections in the world, with artifacts spanning from the Revolution through the 20th century.

What Happened Here

Washington chose Springfield for its inland location — far enough from the coast to be safe from British naval raids — and its access to the Connecticut River for transport.