Lincoln & Civil War Legacy Trail
Citywide, Alton, IL 62002
Historic Sites
Walk in the footsteps of Abraham and Mary Todd Lincoln, and Civil War soldiers from both North and South.
Experience the life of young Lincoln as a lawyer, duelist and orator. It was here that the final Lincoln-Douglas Debate took place, with the issue of slavery on the minds of spectators. It was here that Confederate soldiers were held captive, died and were buried. It was here that Alton resident and U.S. Senator Lyman Trumbull authored the 13th Amendment, putting an end to slavery in the United States. Experience the 11 historic sites interpreted along the Lincoln & Civil War Legacy Trail.
What's happening nearby...
Flotsam! River Circus in Alton
Lincoln Shields Recreation Area • Aug 25 @ 6:30PM
Flotsam! River Circus returns to Alton with a free, family-friendly performance featuring live music, circus acts, and giant puppets. Bring a blanket or lawn chair, enjoy…
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Alton Jazz & Wine Festival
Alton Amphitheater • Aug 29 @ 6PM
Celebrate the legacy of Alton native Miles Davis at the Alton Jazz & Wine Festival on Aug. 29! Enjoy live jazz, local wines, food vendors and…
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Alton Pride Festival 2026
Belle Street • Sep 12 @ 11AM
Celebrate the 5th Annual Alton Pride Festival with live music, dazzling drag performances, local vendors, family-friendly activities, delicious food, and a day full of love, kindness,…
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Haskell Playhouse
Alton
A Victorian-style playhouse built for the daughter of Dr. William A. Haskell, a physician and one of the wealthiest residents of Alton, as a present for…
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McPike Mansion
Alton
When just about any native of the Alton area thinks of a haunted house, normally one name comes to mind - the infamous McPike Mansion.
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Confederate Prison Site
Alton
Visit first Illinois State Penitentiary and learn about the ghastly history of the overcrowded, often disease-infested prison. Today, it is a monument dedicated to those who…
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