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Lincoln Home: A Journey into the Life of a President

Visit the meticulously preserved Springfield home where Abraham Lincoln lived for 17 years before becoming President.

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Step back in time at the Lincoln Home National Historic Site in Springfield, Illinois, and explore the meticulously preserved home where Abraham Lincoln lived with his family from 1844 to 1861. This house offers a unique glimpse into his life before the presidency, showcasing his role as a husband, father, neighbor, and politician.

A brief summary to Lincoln Home

  • 426 S 7th St, Springfield, Old Aristocracy Hill, Illinois, 62703, US

Local tips

  • Arrive early, especially during peak season (March-November), to secure free tour tickets at the Visitor Center, as they are given out on a first-come, first-served basis.
  • Take advantage of the free parking on weekends, as on-street parking in downtown Springfield is free.
  • Explore the surrounding four-block historic neighborhood to get a broader sense of Lincoln's life and times.
  • Check out the Lincoln Home National Historic Site's YouTube channel for a virtual tour of the house if you are unable to visit in person or have mobility limitations.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, walk south on 6th Street, then turn right onto E. Capitol Avenue. Walk four blocks west to 7th Street and turn left. The Lincoln Home Visitor Center is located at 426 South 7th Street, about half a block south. This is a walk of approximately 0.3 miles and should take about 5-10 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    The Sangamon Mass Transit District (SMTD) provides public bus service to the Lincoln Home area. Check the SMTD website for the most up-to-date routes and schedules. From most locations in Springfield, take the bus that stops closest to the intersection of 7th Street and Capitol Avenue. The Visitor Center is a short walk south on 7th Street. A single ride fare is approximately $1.

  • Driving

    From I-55, follow signs to downtown Springfield. Take the Clear Lake Avenue exit and proceed west. Clear Lake Avenue will merge into Jefferson Street. Turn left onto 7th Street. The Lincoln Home Visitor Center will be on your left at 426 South 7th Street. The parking lot is located a half block south of the visitor center. Parking at the Lincoln Home NHS parking lot costs $2 per hour.

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Discover more about Lincoln Home

The Lincoln Home National Historic Site invites visitors to experience the world of Abraham Lincoln before he became the 16th President of the United States. Located in Springfield, Illinois, the centerpiece of the site is the Lincoln Home, the only house Lincoln ever owned, where he lived with his wife, Mary Todd Lincoln, and their children for 17 years. The house has been completely restored to its 1860 appearance, providing an intimate look at the Lincolns' domestic life. Visitors can explore the twelve rooms spread over two floors, including the formal parlor, sitting room, dining room, and bedrooms. The home is furnished with original and period pieces, offering insights into the family's daily routines and social life. The experience begins at the Lincoln Home Visitor Center, where you can obtain free tour tickets and learn about the site. Ranger-led tours, limited to 15 people, provide access to the home and in-depth information about the Lincoln family and their time in Springfield. The tour guides share stories and details about Lincoln's life, his law career, and his political aspirations during his time in Springfield. Beyond the home itself, the historic site encompasses a four-block neighborhood with twelve structures that have been restored to their 1860 appearance. Visitors can stroll through the neighborhood and explore the Dean and Arnold Houses, which feature exhibits related to Lincoln and his era. The neighborhood provides context for understanding Lincoln's life and the community in which he lived. The Lincoln Home is more than just a historic house; it's a portal into the past, offering a personal connection to one of America's most revered figures. It is a reminder of his humble beginnings and the values that shaped his presidency.

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