Background

Illinois Centennial Monument: A Symbol of Statehood

Commemorating Illinois' centennial, this iconic monument in Logan Square showcases the state's history through art and architecture.

4.6

The Illinois Centennial Monument, located in Logan Square Park, Chicago, commemorates the 100th anniversary of Illinois' statehood. Designed by Henry Bacon, the architect of the Lincoln Memorial, and featuring sculptures by Evelyn Beatrice Longman, this monument stands as a tribute to the state's rich history and progress.

A brief summary to Illinois Centennial Monument

  • Logan Square Park, 3150 W Logan Blvd, Chicago, Logan Square, Illinois, 60647, US
  • Visit website

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for a quieter experience and better lighting for photography.
  • Take a stroll around Logan Square Park to enjoy the surrounding green space and neighborhood atmosphere.
  • Check local event listings to see if any community activities or festivals are taking place in the park during your visit.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The Illinois Centennial Monument is easily accessible via the CTA Blue Line. Take the Blue Line to the Logan Square station. From the station, walk east on Logan Boulevard for about 0.5 miles. The monument will be visible in Logan Square Park. A single ride on CTA costs $2.50.

  • Walking

    From anywhere in Logan Square, the monument is easily reachable by foot. Use Logan Square Park as your landmark and walk towards the intersection of N Milwaukee Avenue and Logan Boulevard. The monument is located in the center of the square.

Unlock the Best of Illinois Centennial Monument

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Illinois Centennial Monument

The Illinois Centennial Monument, erected in 1918, stands as a proud symbol of Illinois' first century as a state. Located in the heart of Logan Square Park, at the intersection of Logan Boulevard and Milwaukee Avenue, the monument serves as a visual reminder of the state's rich history and cultural evolution. Designed by Henry Bacon, famed architect of the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C., the monument is a 70-foot (21 m) tall marble Doric column. Atop the column sits an eagle, a direct reference to the Flag of Illinois. The monument's base features relief sculptures designed by Evelyn Beatrice Longman, depicting figures of Native Americans, explorers, farmers, and laborers, representing the significant changes Illinois experienced during its initial century. These figures include Daniel Boone, Hiawatha, and Ceres. The column itself is constructed from thirteen solid marble segments, exhibiting the same proportions and scale as the columns of the Parthenon in Greece. In 1997, the Chicago Department of Transportation enhanced the monument's surroundings by planting 81 trees, including various species of ash, oak, and hawthorns. The Illinois Centennial Monument is more than just a historical marker; it's a focal point for the Logan Square community. It also marks the start of the Logan Square Arts Festival.

Popular Experiences near Illinois Centennial Monument

Popular Hotels near Illinois Centennial Monument

Select Currency