Springfield is full of fascinating history even outside of the usual Abe Lincoln connections. However, much of the city’s “everyday life” history gets overlooked. Luckily, a Facebook group called “You know you’re from Springfield, IL, when…” exists to share the type of history that probably won’t make the text books. On a typical day, members post photos of Springfield institutions from yesteryear, such as The Jack Robinson System, a beloved local burger chain which closed in the ‘80s. The comments are where the real gold is found, though, as people share their memories dredged up by the photos. (Apparently, The Jack Robinson System was a hot spot for drunken young folks.) The group and its 15,300-plus members are moderated by three dedicated administrators: Andrew Trello, Greg Kramer and Bryan Weinhoeft. “I believe it’s our members who make our group great,” Weinhoeft said. He notes that the group has roughly 1,000 photos organized in 158 albums, and the members are great about answering questions for one another. Every now and then, the group will also help organize class reunions or trade items like old Springfield-related clothing or banners. Taken together, it’s a fascinating look back at real life in Springfield’s past. Check it out at www.facebook.com/groups/memoriesofspringfield.
This article appears in Feb 18-24, 2016.
