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...
Miles Davis Jazz Festival 2026
Post Commons • May 22 – May 23 @ 6PM
Celebrate 100 years of Miles Davis May 22–23 in Alton with live jazz, food, and community.
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250 on the Mississippi at Haskell Park
Haskell Park • Jul 01 @ 4PM
Kick off opening night of 250 on the Mississippi at Haskell Park on July 1! Enjoy a giant birthday cake, eating contests, live music, food trucks,…
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250 on the Mississippi at Rotary Park
Alton Godfrey Rotary Park • Jul 02 @ 4PM
Keep the celebration going at Alton Godfrey Rotary Park with live music by American Jackals, food trucks, stilt walkers, kids activities, and festive fun for the…
Read more about 250 on the Mississippi at Rotary ParkYou might also be interested...
Underground Railroad Shuttle Tours
Alton
Discover the story of the Underground Railroad throughout Alton, IL.
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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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Elijah P. Lovejoy Monument
Alton
Visit the monument of an amazingly persistent and inspirational freedom fighter, Elijah P. Lovejoy.
Read more about Elijah P. Lovejoy Monument