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Shedd Aquarium

Old State Capitol

1 Old State Capitol Plaza, Springfield, IL 62701

Historic Sites

Within these walls a great man rose to prominence to become the 16th president of the United States. It was here Lincoln spoke the immortal words, “A house divided against itself cannot stand…” as the threat of a Civil War loomed.

The Old State Capitol is a reconstruction of Illinois' fifth statehouse, the first to be located in Springfield. It is here that Lincoln practiced law, served as a legislator and gave his famed House Divided speech on slavery in 1858. The building served as the seat of state government and a center of Illinois political life from 1839-1876. The current State Capitol Building is the center of state government, where visitors can watch Illinois politics in action when the legislature is in session.

(The Old State Capitol is currently closed for rennovations)

What's happening nearby...

The Chainsmokers at the Illinois State Fair Grandstand

Illinois State Fair Grandstand •  Aug 15 @ 8PM

The Chainsmokers take the stage at the Illinois State Fair Grandstand

Read more about The Chainsmokers at the Illinois State Fair Grandstand

Illinois State Fair

Illinois State Fairgrounds •  Aug 07 – Aug 17 @ 7AM

The Illinois State Fair has been celebrated nearly every year since 1953 as a showcase for Illinois agriculture. Come join the fun August 10th-20th.

Read more about Illinois State Fair

Lincoln: Sight, Sound & Touch at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum

Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum •  May 23 – Aug 24 @ 9AM

Lincoln: Sight, Sound & Touch is on display at the ALPLM, May 23 - August 24

Read more about Lincoln: Sight, Sound & Touch at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum

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