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Abraham Lincoln's First Illinois Home

Discover where Abraham Lincoln began his Illinois journey in 1830, a glimpse into his formative years on the frontier.

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Visit the site of Abraham Lincoln's first home in Illinois, where his family settled in 1830 near Decatur. Though the original cabin is gone, the site offers a glimpse into the challenging frontier life that shaped the future president.

A brief summary to Abraham Lincoln's First Illinois Home

Local tips

  • Explore the nature trails along the Sangamon River for a peaceful walk.
  • Visit the site during the weekdays to avoid larger crowds.
  • Check the local calendar for any special events or reenactments that may enhance your visit.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Decatur, head west on I-72. Take exit 144 for IL-51 N toward Decatur, then merge onto IL-51 N. Turn left onto E Cerro Gordo St, then right onto S 19th St. Finally, turn left onto E Wood St. Parking is available near the site.

  • Public Transport

    Take a Decatur Public Transit System (DPTS) bus to the nearest stop to Lincoln Trail Homestead State Park. From the bus stop, you may need to take a taxi or rideshare service to reach the site. A single ride on DPTS is $1.

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Discover more about Abraham Lincoln's First Illinois Home

Abraham Lincoln's First Illinois Home, located near Decatur, Illinois, marks the spot where the Lincoln family first settled upon arriving in Illinois in March 1830. Seeking new opportunities, Abraham Lincoln, his father, stepmother, and other family members constructed a log cabin on the banks of the Sangamon River. Life on the Illinois frontier proved challenging. The family faced illness and a harsh winter known as the 'Winter of the Deep Snow,' which brought sub-zero temperatures and significant snowfall. These hardships prompted Thomas and Sarah Lincoln to move to Coles County the following year. However, this marked a turning point for Abraham, who chose to seek his own path. Today, visitors can explore the grounds of Lincoln Trail Homestead State Park, where the cabin once stood. While the original cabin was dismantled and lost to the sea after being exhibited across the country following Lincoln's assassination, a stone marker indicates the approximate location of the home. The park features nature trails, a pioneer cemetery, and the remains of an old mill dam, offering a serene setting to reflect on Lincoln's early life and the history of the Illinois frontier.

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