Skip to main content

Search the middle of everything...

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...

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

Moonlight Market

500 S 6th Street •  May 07 – Sep 17 @ 6PM

Moonlight Market takes place the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of each month, May through September on Jackson Street between 6th and 7th.

Read more about Moonlight Market

Old Capitol Farmers' Market in Downtown Springfield

Downtown Springfield-Corner of 4th & Adams St •  May 14 – Oct 25 @ 8AM

Visit Springfield's longest-running and most popular Farmers Market in beautiful downtown Springfield.

Read more about Old Capitol Farmers' Market in Downtown Springfield

You might also be interested...

Route History Museum & Souvenir Shop

Springfield

At Route History visitors can experience and learn about pioneers that made significant contributions to Illinois, the city of Springfield, the greater society, located along…

Read more about Route History Museum & Souvenir Shop

Edwards Place

Springfield

Built in 1833, this Italianate mansion was part of the social center of Springfield in its day. Nearly all of Illinois' most prominent citizens and politicians,…

Read more about Edwards Place

Lincoln's Family Pew

Springfield

Abraham and Mary Todd Lincoln, like many of their neighbors, maintained a family pew in their place of worship.

Read more about Lincoln's Family Pew

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Get inspired by top travel stories, gain access to exclusive promotions and contests, and discover even more reasons to #EnjoyIllinois.