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Moore Home State Historic Site: A Glimpse into Lincoln's Family Life

Step back in time at the Moore Home, where Abraham Lincoln bid farewell to his family before becoming President, offering a glimpse into 1860s family life.

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Visit the Moore Home State Historic Site in Lerna, Illinois, to see the preserved home of Reuben Moore and Matilda Johnston Hall, Abraham Lincoln's stepsister. This late 1850s home offers a unique look into the lives of Lincoln's extended family and their connection to this historic figure.

A brief summary to Moore Home State Historic Site

Local tips

  • Check the operating hours before your visit, as they may vary depending on the season.
  • Consider taking a guided tour for a richer understanding of the site's historical significance.
  • Bring a camera to capture the beautiful architecture and surrounding landscapes.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    The Moore Home State Historic Site is located at 400 Lincoln Hwy Rd, Lerna, IL 62440. From Charleston, Illinois, head south on Lincoln Highway for approximately 8 miles. The site will be on your left. There is paved parking available, including accessible parking spaces.

  • Public Transport

    To reach the Moore Home State Historic Site via public transportation, take the Prairie Star bus from downtown Springfield to Mattoon. From Mattoon, you will need to take a taxi or rideshare service to the site at 400 Lincoln Hwy Rd, Lerna, IL 62440. Taxi/rideshare cost from Mattoon to the site is approximately $20-$30.

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Discover more about Moore Home State Historic Site

The Moore Home State Historic Site offers a personal connection to Abraham Lincoln's life, showcasing the home of his stepsister, Matilda Johnston Hall, and her husband, Reuben Moore. The 1.5-story frame house, dating back to the late 1850s, was reconstructed in 1936 by the Civilian Conservation Corps and furnished with period pieces from the 1860s. Visitors can explore the home and learn about the last visit Abraham Lincoln made to his stepmother, Sarah Bush Lincoln, and her family before departing for his inauguration in Washington, D.C. on January 31, 1861. The home provides insights into the lives of a middle-class family in the mid-19th century. Located within the Lincoln Log Cabin State Historic Site, the Moore Home is part of a broader historical experience. The site also includes the Lincoln Log Cabin, the Thomas Lincoln Cemetery, and the Sargent Farm, offering a comprehensive view of 1840s Illinois farm life.

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