Main Street
Originally called Pine Street, Main Street was the location of the city’s first electric streetcar line. After the Great Fire of 1901, Main Street became a major focal point in the revitalization of a new and exciting Jacksonville. In Downtown, Main Street quickly became a major retail destination for Jacksonville residents and visitors. Major chains once located along Main Street included S.H. Kress & Co., Woolworth, Lane Drugs, JCPenney, McCrory and Grant’s.
In Springfield, Main Street developed out as an early 20th century urban “auto mall” and walkable mixed-use commercial district. Unlike the downtown portion of Main Street, Springfield’s Main Street still maintains a portion of its historic integrity. Long overlooked, it is currently transforming into the city’s next revitalization focal point.