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Douglas Tomb State Historic Site

Visit the final resting place of Stephen Douglas, famed for his debates with Abraham Lincoln, in Chicago's historic Bronzeville neighborhood.

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The Douglas Tomb State Historic Site in Chicago is the final resting place of U.S. Senator Stephen Douglas, famed for his debates with Abraham Lincoln. The site features a 96-foot granite and marble structure housing Douglas's remains and offers a glimpse into the life and times of this influential 19th-century politician.

A brief summary to Douglas Tomb State Historic Site

Local tips

  • Check the site's opening hours before visiting, as they may vary.
  • Consider visiting on a weekday for a quieter, more peaceful experience.
  • Take time to read the informative plaques to fully appreciate the historical context of Stephen Douglas's life and legacy.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From downtown Chicago, take the CTA Green Line to the 35th-Bronzeville-IIT station. From there, walk east on 35th Street for about two blocks to reach the Douglas Tomb State Historic Site. A single ride on the CTA costs $2.50.

  • Walking

    If you are near the lakefront trail, a pedestrian bridge connects to the park near the Douglas Tomb State Historic Site. From the trail, follow the path west towards 35th Street. The tomb will be visible on your right. No cost for walking.

  • Ride Share

    From anywhere in Chicago, use a ride-sharing service like Uber or Lyft to reach the Douglas Tomb State Historic Site. The destination address is 636 E 35th St, Chicago, IL 60616. The cost will vary depending on the distance and time of day, but expect to pay around $15-$30 for a ride.

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Discover more about Douglas Tomb State Historic Site

The Douglas Tomb State Historic Site, located in Chicago's Bronzeville neighborhood, commemorates the life and legacy of Stephen Arnold Douglas (1813-1861), a prominent U.S. Senator. Douglas, known as the "Little Giant" for his political prowess, played a significant role in shaping American politics in the mid-19th century. The 96-foot-tall monument, constructed from granite and marble, was completed in 1881. Inside, a Vermont marble sarcophagus holds Douglas's remains, with a marble bust of the Senator above. Bronze allegorical figures representing "Illinois," "History," "Justice," and "Eloquence" adorn the mausoleum's corners. Bas-reliefs depict stages in American civilization's advancement, and a nine-foot bronze statue of Douglas overlooks Lake Michigan from atop a 46-foot column. Visitors can explore the landscaped grounds, which feature trees and flower beds. During operating hours, the tomb is open, allowing visitors to view the sarcophagus and learn about Douglas's life and the tomb's history. The Stephen A. Douglas Association co-sponsors ceremonies near Douglas's birth (April 23) and death (June 3) anniversaries. Douglas is best remembered for his debates with Abraham Lincoln regarding slavery and popular sovereignty. Although Douglas won the 1858 Senate race against Lincoln, he lost the 1860 presidential election to him. Despite their political differences, Douglas supported Lincoln and the Union cause after the Civil War began.

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