West Springfield, Massachusetts

The Town of West Springfield is a city of almost 28,000 residents in Massachusetts. Originally part of the city of Springfield, West Springfield is located on the west bank of the Connecticut River, from which it derives its nickname, the "West Side." West Springfield is part of the Springfield-Hartford Knowledge Corridor, a partnership dedicated to promoting economic and educational opportunities in the region. An annual agricultural fair, The Big E, or Eastern States Exposition, draws participants and visitors from across New England, and provides substantial seasonal employment.

Settled in 1636 as Agawam, the area was renamed Springfield in 1640. In 1654, the settlement spread to the west bank of the Connecticut River, where it joins the Agawam River. The difficulties of crossing the river eventually led to West Springfield becoming a separate parish, and in 1774, a separate town which included present-day Agawam and Holyoke. Agriculture, fur trading and animal husbandry provided income for much of West Springfield's early years. The first bridge across the Connecticut was built in 1805, and the Western Railroad (later the Boston and Albany Railroad) began freight and passenger service in 1841, ushering in the Industrial Revolution and transforming the town. Between 1839 and 1892, half-a-dozen paper mills, including the Mittineague Paper Company, forerunner of Strathmore Paper Company, were built and staffed, largely by Irish immigrants. Other factories produced carriages, hats, ceramics, pipe and gunpowder. West Springfield developed into a transportation hub, with two major rail yards which were top employers for decades. In 1949, the Western Massachusetts Electric Company's 50,000kw West Springfield Station went online, and still provides electric power during peak demand times. West Springfield, like much of New England, has experienced manufacturing loss during recent decades, and is transitioning to a more commercial and high-tech-based economy.

West Springfield has a history of construction and manufacturing in industries known for using asbestos-containing materials. Workers exposed to asbestos may be at risk for mesothelioma. We provide information about mesothelioma treatment options in and around West Springfield at the bottom of this page. Additionally, mesothelioma attorneys may be able to give guidance if you were exposed to asbestos in West Springfield and then diagnosed with mesothelioma.

Jobsites in West Springfield where Asbestos Exposure Occurred

A number of jobsites in West Springfield, MA have been identified as harboring asbestos containing materials. These sites, at one point in their history, were known to have exposed a variety of tradesmen to asbestos. We will be documenting in more detail how asbestos exposure occurred at these sites in the future on this web site.

Mesothelioma Cancer Centers Near West Springfield, MA

For your convenience we have compiled a list of mesothelioma cancer centers that are located within a 100 mile radius of West Springfield, MA. Please click on a cancer center link to obtain more information about the clinical programs offered, professional designations, areas of expertise and how to contact the center.

Mesothelioma Doctors Near West Springfield, MA

For your convenience we have compiled a list of mesothelioma doctors who are located within a 100 mile radius of West Springfield, MA. Please click on a doctor link to obtain more information about his/her background, areas of expertise, professional affiliations and office locations.