Abraham Lincoln was born on February 12, 1809. He spent his young adulthood and life prior to becoming our sixteenth president in Springfield IL. The area around Springfield features many historical sites specific to this great president.
New Salem
New Salem is a reconstruction of a village where Lincoln spent his young adulthood. The village features log houses, a tavern, a working mill, and many other buildings. Visitors can see the site of Lincoln's two stores he ran with his partner, William Berry. Many of the articles in the buildings were actually used by people from Lincoln's time.
Lincoln's Home
This is the home that Lincoln moved into with his wife. It was smaller than what can be seen today as it was enlarged as the sons started arriving. The younger 3 boys (Tad, Willie, and Eddie) were born here, and this is where Eddie died as well. The house served as the Lincoln's home until the Presidential inaugural in 1861. The house was deeded to the State of Illinois by Robert Lincoln in 1901.
The furniture is what was used by the Lincoln's when they resided there. Visitors can see Lincoln's bed, toys the boys would have played with, and a replica of the original nameplate by the front door.
Old State Capital
Lincoln was a state senator in this building prior to becoming the President of the United States. It was here that he delivered his House Divided speech while running for the United States Congress. Visitors can see the actual desk and chair Lincoln used when he was in the state legislature. Posters from his campaign are also present.
Lincoln's Law Office
Across from the Old State Capital is the site of Lincoln's law office. It is here that he practiced law with his partner, Stephen T. Logan. The partnership lasted until Lincoln was assinated in 1863. Of particular interest here is the recreation of the messiness of Lincoln's actual office. The site also features an 1840s post office recreation, and audiovisual presentations.
Lincoln's Tomb
Abraham Lincoln's Tomb is located in Oak Ridge Cemetery in Springfield. The tomb is the final resting place of not only our 16th president but of his wife, Mary Todd, and three of his four sons: Eddie, Willie and Tad. The fourth son, Robert, is buried in Arlington National Cemetery in Washington DC.
The tomb is made of granite. The exterior features statues of soldiers of the Civil War as well as a bust of Lincoln. Many visitors rub the nose of the bust for good luck.
The interior features statuary representing the life of Lincoln. The statues include a replica of the statue at the Lincoln Memorial in Washington DC. Excerpts from Lincoln's speeches are engraved on the wall. Lincoln is entombed below a red marble marker in a steel and concrete vault.
Abraham Lincoln Presidental Library and Museum
The Museum, which is the newest of the Lincoln sites, provides visitors with a glimpse into the life of our 16th president. Features include 3D figures of the president and his family. Visitors can travel from Lincoln's boyhood in a log cabin to his lying in state at the capital through scenes with figues.
Of special interest to young visitors is Mrs. Lincoln's Attic. Here visitors can dress in period costumes and try their hand at period activities such as writing with a slate. Figures of young Abe and his sister are also available for pictures.
A visit to Springfield Illinois in 2009 is a fine way to celebrate Abraham Lincoln's 200th birthday. Special events will be going on throughout the year. Plan a trip now to honor this great American President.
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