Old State Capitol
1 Old State Capitol Plaza, Springfield, IL 62701
Historic Sites
Within these walls a great man rose to prominence to become the 16th president of the United States. It was here Lincoln spoke the immortal words, “A house divided against itself cannot stand…” as the threat of a Civil War loomed.
The Old State Capitol is a reconstruction of Illinois' fifth statehouse, the first to be located in Springfield. It is here that Lincoln practiced law, served as a legislator and gave his famed House Divided speech on slavery in 1858. The building served as the seat of state government and a center of Illinois political life from 1839-1876. The current State Capitol Building is the center of state government, where visitors can watch Illinois politics in action when the legislature is in session.
(The Old State Capitol is currently closed for rennovations)
What's happening nearby...
History Comes Alive: Spring Break Edition
Downtown Springfield • Mar 16 – Mar 30 @ 10AM
History Comes Alive just in time for Spring Break. Look for the Lincolns as you enjoy a trip back in time. March 16-30
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Springfield Jr Blues Hockey Season
The Nelson Center • Sep 20 – Apr 05 @ 6:30PM
Catch all the action of the 2024-2025 Springfield Jr Blues Hockey Season!
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Spring Floral Show at Washington Park Botanical Gardens
Washington Park Botanical Garden • Mar 22 – Apr 13 @ 12noon
Spring has sprung at the Washington Park Botanical Garden for the Spring Floral Show March 22 - April 13.
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Lincoln Home National Historic Site
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The national historic site, run by the National Park Service, includes the only home Abraham Lincoln ever owned, as well as a four-block neighborhood that reveals…
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Camp Butler National Cemetery
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Once the site of a Union Civil War training camp and Confederate prison, now a national cemetery for veterans and their dependents. There are over 25,000…
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