By Madison Mabry

Located in the heart of Springfield, just a few blocks from Missouri State University’s campus, lies a quaint residential neighborhood known as Phelps Grove. Home to lifelong Springfield citizens and college students alike, the community is filled with neighbors who love to help their neighbors. According to Springfield Neighborhood News, whether it is helping one rebuild a fence, participating in neighborhood cleanups or keeping up with the community garden, Phelps Grove residents find pride in their neighborhood and are always ready to give a helping hand to whoever may need it. 

The Phelps Grove Neighborhood Association website says their mission “is to make our neighborhood a safe, peaceful and enjoyable place to live, a neighborhood of friends working together for the benefit of all residents.” From my experience with people living in the Phelps Grove area and reading stories about their generosity, it is safe to say this neighborhood upholds its mission. 

The Phelps Grove neighborhood is bordered by Grand Street on the North, National Avenue on the east, Bennett and Brookside to the south, and Jefferson Avenue on the west.

This residential area began after the first home was built by William and Irene Johnson in 1914. However, the neighborhood association was not officially established until 1989, according to their website. Since then, a patchwork of Victorian-style homes, cottages and sleek modern houses have filled the streets with character. 

To support their mission, the Phelps Grove Neighborhood was established as an urban conservation district in 1997. According to the neighborhood’s website, an urban conservation district is “a zoning designation and can be used to replace all or some of zoning restrictions. It can also be used to enact new regulations for an area.” Becoming an urban conservation district has allowed the area to preserve its history and remain a peaceful community. 

Even with the busyness of Grand Street and the consistent sounds of sirens on National Avenue, Phelps Grove remains a quiet area centered around a popular recreational area, Phelps Grove Park. In the spring, summer and fall seasons, you are sure to see college students and individuals from all over Springfield come to enjoy nature and community. 

Although the area is mainly residential, Phelps Grove is home to a few businesses, including Springfield’s Art Museum. This free attraction contains rotating exhibitions for the community throughout the year. Currently, the museum is temporarily closed as it prepares to undergo major renovations. 

It’s All Downtown describes Phelps Grove as a place that “reminds one of a more peaceful and neighborly time gone by,” and I could not agree more. Whether snow blankets the streets and trees or the summer sun casts a golden glow through the branches, the neighborhood offers a quiet escape from the busyness of Springfield. Whether one is looking for a place to call home or just somewhere to spend the day, Phelps Grove is a place to slow down and enjoy the calm of nature.