Springfield, IL, June 17, 2024 – Visit Springfield is set to unveil a commemorative plaque recognizing the historic Leland Building at the corner of 6th Street and Capitol Avenue in Springfield as the place where the original Springfield Horseshoe Sandwich was created.

 

In partnership with the Illinois Commerce Commission, the agency that currently occupies the historic building, a plaque telling of the history will be installed on the east side of the building facing 6th Street on June 20, 2024 at 10am. Media is encouraged to attend the ceremony.

 

“Food is an important piece of any community’s history, and for Springfield, that’s the Horseshoe. The ICC has called the Leland Building home for over 50 years, and we are proud to share in the space where this landmark sandwich first made its mark on the city,” said Jonathan Feipel, Executive Director of the Illinois Commerce Commission.

  

The Signature Horseshoe Sandwich was created in 1928 at the Old Leland Hotel by Joe Schweska. The idea came about with the help of Elizabeth, Chef Schweska's wife, after he came home saying he was in need of a new lunch item for the Leland Hotel Restaurant. The name "horseshoe" was derived from the shape of the cut of ham used in the original sandwich. The French fries represent the nails of the shoe, and the sizzle platter represents the hot anvil.

 

In conjunction with the recently launched Springfield Horseshoe Trail, this will allow visitors to have an experience related to the iconic culinary delight while in Springfield. Information shows that culinary tourism, allowing travelers to experience a destination's culture through the sensory, artistic medium of food, can be a significant driving factor to where people choose to travel to.  The Springfield Horseshoe is the perfect calling card for foodies from across the country and the world. 

 

Learn more about the Horseshoe Trail here:

 

“Springfield has long been famous for our Horseshoe Sandwich. It has been featured on several Food Network shows and is a highly anticipated treat for visitors when they arrive. There is really no better way to amplify this historic food experience than through the Trail and now a place to see the original location where it was established. We are thrilled to connect our community and visitors with a full-rounded experience.” Amy Beadle, Marketing Manager, Visit Springfield

 

The Springfield Convention & Visitors Bureau (SCVB) is the official destination marketing organization for the City of Springfield, Illinois. As a department of the City of Springfield, the SCVB markets the capital city as a unique convention, meeting and leisure destination.

   

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For more information or to schedule an interview, contact Amy Beadle, Marketing Manager, amy.beadle@springfield.il.us or via phone at 217-414-1590 or 217-789-1530 x5533.