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Illinois Historic Preservation Agency: Protecting Illinois's Past

Explore Illinois's rich history and architectural treasures with the Illinois Historic Preservation Agency in Springfield.

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The Illinois Historic Preservation Agency (IHPA) in Springfield safeguards Illinois's historical and architectural heritage. It operates numerous historic sites, offers preservation resources, and promotes the understanding of Illinois's rich past.

A brief summary to Historic Preservation Agency

Local tips

  • Check the IHPA website for a calendar of events, including historical reenactments and educational programs.
  • Visit the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, also managed by the IHPA, to delve deeper into Lincoln's life and legacy.
  • Explore the Old State Capitol, located adjacent to the IHPA, to experience Illinois's political history.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Lincoln Home National Historic Site (426 South 7th Street), head north on 7th Street to Capitol Avenue. Turn right on Capitol Avenue and walk east for four blocks to the Old State Capitol Plaza. The Historic Preservation Agency is at 1 N Old State Capitol Plaza, next to the Old State Capitol building.

  • Public Transport

    Take Route 10 or Route 11 of the Springfield Mass Transit District (SMTD) to the Old State Capitol stop. Walk towards the Old State Capitol building; the Historic Preservation Agency is at 1 N Old State Capitol Plaza, adjacent to the Old State Capitol. SMTD bus fares are typically around $1-$2 per ride.

  • Driving

    From I-55, take exit 96A for Clear Lake Avenue/Illinois Route 97. Follow Clear Lake Avenue west, then turn left onto N 9th Street. Continue onto N 9th Street, then turn right onto E Washington Street. Turn left onto N 6th Street, then turn left again onto E Adams Street. The Old State Capitol Plaza will be on your left. Parking is available in the underground parking garage on S. 6th St. between Adams and Washington, with elevator access to the Old State Capitol. Parking rates in downtown Springfield garages typically range from $1-$2 per hour.

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Discover more about Historic Preservation Agency

The Illinois Historic Preservation Agency (IHPA), located in downtown Springfield, plays a crucial role in preserving and promoting the history of Illinois. As a division of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, the IHPA oversees numerous historic sites and memorials throughout the state, encompassing over 2,000 years of Illinois history. The agency's responsibilities include maintaining state-owned historic sites and maximizing their educational and recreational value for visitors and online users. IHPA also manages the process for applications to the National Register of Historic Places and other federal preservation schemes. It offers various programs, events, and tours at twenty-six staffed sites. These sites range from Native American settlements to architectural masterpieces and industrial landmarks, each telling a unique story about Illinois's past. IHPA also includes the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, which uses traditional exhibits and modern technology to showcase the life of Abraham Lincoln. The agency provides tools for researching history and maintains a vast collection of historical books, newspapers, and artifacts. IHPA also reviews construction projects for their potential impact on historic resources and investigates discoveries of human remains over a century old. The Illinois Historic Preservation Agency is overseen by a board of seven trustees appointed by the governor.

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