The tales of Homer Simpson and his family have become embedded in television lore, but ever wonder where Springfield, the illustrious hometown of The Simpsons, is really based?

The town of Springfield has become a character of its own on the popular animated TV show, serving as the backdrop to the adventures of the Simpson family. But in 23 years on air, the show's creator has kept the real location of the town veiled, saying he didn't want to "ruin it for people" - until now.

In an interview with Smithsonian Magazine's May issue, Matt Groening revealed that the animated town is based on Springfield, Oregon, near his childhood hometown of Portland.

He also was inspired to use the town's name after it was featured on the 1950s television show Father Knows Best.