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Old State Capitol: Echoes of Lincoln's Illinois

Walk in Lincoln's footsteps at Illinois' Old State Capitol, where history comes alive in a meticulously reconstructed Greek Revival masterpiece.

Step back in time at the Old State Capitol in Springfield, Illinois, a meticulously reconstructed Greek Revival building that served as the state's capitol from 1840 to 1876. Here, Abraham Lincoln practiced law, delivered his famous 'House Divided' speech, and lay in state after his assassination.

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Local tips

  • Check the official website for any ongoing reconditioning efforts or temporary closures before your visit.
  • Take a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the building's history and Lincoln's connection to it.
  • Consider visiting other Lincoln-related sites in Springfield, such as the Lincoln Home National Historic Site and the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Old State Capitol is located downtown at the corner of 6th and Adams Streets, easily accessible on foot from many nearby attractions and hotels. From the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, walk east on Madison Street, then turn right onto 6th Street. The Capitol will be on your left. No costs involved.

  • Public Transport

    The Sangamon Mass Transit District (SMTD) provides bus service throughout Springfield. Several routes stop near the Old State Capitol. Check the SMTD website or app for the most up-to-date schedules and route information. A day pass costs $3.00, offering unlimited rides.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Springfield. A short taxi ride from the Amtrak station to the Old State Capitol will likely cost around $14, but fares may vary depending on demand, traffic and time of day.

  • Driving

    An underground parking garage is available beneath the Old State Capitol, with an entrance on 6th Street between Adams and Washington. Parking costs $1.50 per 30 minutes. Metered street parking may also be available, but is enforced Monday through Friday. The garage is open Monday to Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

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Discover more about Springfield, IL

The Old State Capitol in Springfield, Illinois, is more than just a building; it's a portal into the heart of 19th-century American history. This carefully reconstructed Greek Revival masterpiece served as Illinois' statehouse from 1840 to 1876, a period of immense growth and transformation for both the state and the nation. Designed by architect John Francis Rague, the building's majestic columns and locally sourced limestone evoke a sense of timelessness and gravitas. Within these walls, Abraham Lincoln's career flourished. He practiced law before the Illinois Supreme Court, which convened here, and delivered his pivotal 'House Divided' speech in 1858, a moment that defined his stance on slavery and propelled him onto the national stage. The Old State Capitol witnessed other significant events. Stephen Douglas, Lincoln's political rival, confronted Lincoln here. Following Lincoln's assassination, his body lay in state in Representatives Hall, allowing 75,000 mourners to pay their respects. After the capital moved to the current Illinois State Capitol Building in 1876, the Old State Capitol served as the Sangamon County Courthouse for nearly a century. In the 1960s, the state repurchased the building and undertook a meticulous reconstruction to restore it to its original Lincoln-era appearance. The building was dismantled in 1966 and rebuilt with modern facilities. Today, visitors can explore the historic chambers, government offices, and libraries, immersing themselves in the world of Lincoln and his contemporaries. The Old State Capitol is open Tuesday through Saturday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and closed on major holidays. Admission is free, although donations are appreciated.

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