Last Updated on 2025 年 8 月 9 日 by 総合編集組
Exploring Illinois’ Rich Historical Heritage: Springfield’s State Historic Sites and Memorials
Springfield, Illinois, serves as a pivotal hub for the state’s historical narrative, housing an impressive collection of State Historic Sites and Memorials overseen by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR). These sites are dedicated to preserving and sharing the dynamic histories of nationally significant places, embodying values of history, hospitality, and health.
The extensive offerings range from poignant war memorials to iconic landmarks tied to Abraham Lincoln and celebrated American figures, providing a comprehensive and insightful journey into Illinois’ past.
Illinois State Memorials: Honoring Sacrifice at Oak Ridge Cemetery
Located within the solemn grounds of Oak Ridge Cemetery at 1500 Monument Avenue, Springfield, a collection of state memorials pays tribute to Illinoisans who served and sacrificed. These memorials are generally accessible to visitors from 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. from September through March, and extended hours of 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. from April through August.
The Vietnam Veterans Memorial, dedicated in 1988, stands as a profound tribute to the nearly 3,000 Illinoisans who were killed or listed as missing in action during the Vietnam War. Its design is deeply symbolic: a central eternal flame is supported by five vertical gray granite walls, each representing a distinct branch of the armed services.
Radiating outwards, five polished black granite horizontal walls, encircled by a low circular wall, form five courtyards where the names of the fallen and missing are meticulously carved. The memorial hosts significant annual events, including the “Vietnam Veterans Vigil and Memorial Service” on the first full weekend in May, a broader Memorial Day observance later that month, and a “Christmas Remembrance” on the first Saturday in December.
Dedicated in 2016, the Illinois Purple Heart Memorial honors recipients of the Purple Heart from all wars in which the United States has participated. Strategically placed between the Illinois Vietnam Veterans Memorial and the World War II Illinois Veterans Memorial, its centerpiece is an eight-foot piece of black granite engraved with a Purple Heart. The reverse side of this central stone features a powerful quote from William Shakespeare’s Henry V: “We few, we happy few, we band of brothers; For he to-day that sheds his blood with me shall be my brother”. Flanking the centerpiece are two smaller black granite stones, each featuring engravings of four soldiers, further emphasizing the theme of camaraderie and sacrifice.
The World War II Memorial commemorates the 987,000 Illinois men and women who served in World War II and specifically honors the 22,000 who made the ultimate sacrifice. The memorial’s focal point is a grand 22-ton white concrete world globe. This globe is flanked on two sides by black granite walls, which feature stainless steel buttons identifying major battle locations. The walls are also inscribed with inspiring quotations from military leaders, as well as Presidents Franklin D. Roosevelt and Harry S. Truman, underscoring the leadership and spirit of the era.
The Korean War State Memorial, dedicated on June 16, 1996, serves as a poignant reminder of the 1,748 Illinoisans who lost their lives during the 1950-1953 Korean War. The core of this memorial is a striking twelve-foot-tall bronze bell, also with a twelve-foot diameter, majestically mounted on a granite base. Encircling the bell’s circumference are four niches, each housing a larger-than-life figure representing a branch of the armed services.
The base of the memorial is inscribed with the names of the Illinoisans killed in Korea. A unique carillon system within the memorial plays brief musical programs at regular intervals, adding an auditory dimension to the tribute. A nearby building contains the carillon controls and lighting systems, while a large surrounding lawn offers ample space for special events and gatherings. The memorial is also equipped with parking facilities accommodating forty-eight vehicles, ensuring accessibility for visitors.
Lincoln-Herndon Law Offices: A Glimpse into Lincoln’s Legal Career
The Lincoln-Herndon Law Offices State Historic Site, located at 6th & Adams Streets in Springfield, holds immense historical significance as the only remaining building where Abraham Lincoln maintained a law office. Constructed in 1840-41, the site comprises the surviving portion of a three-story brick commercial block, reflecting the then-popular Greek Revival architectural style.
While primarily designed for commercial purposes, parts of the building were rented for offices, including Lincoln’s. Lincoln practiced law in this building from 1843 to approximately 1852. During his tenure as a United States Congressman from 1847-1849, his partner William H. Herndon (1818-1891) managed the practice. The building was recognized for its historical importance in 1978 when it was listed on the National Register of Historic Places as part of the Central Springfield Historic District.
The “restored” building offers a multi-level interpretive experience. The first floor features a visitor center, which includes an exhibit gallery and an audiovisual theater, along with a room meticulously interpreted as an 1840s post office facility. The second floor houses rooms designed to represent those used by the federal court. On the third floor, visitors can explore a “common room” and three lawyers’ offices, two of which were used by Lincoln and his partners, prominent local attorneys William H. Herndon and Stephen T. Logan (1800-1880). These recreated offices are notably characterized by the plainness and disorder that were remembered by Lincoln’s associates, offering an authentic glimpse into their working environment.
Visitors typically begin their experience by viewing an orientation video before embarking on a twenty-minute guided tour of the historic rooms. During the summer months, specifically on Wednesdays, a costumed interpreter portrays Lincoln’s law clerk, adding an immersive element to the tour. The exhibits in the visitor center further elaborate on Lincoln’s extensive legal career and his life on the Eighth Judicial Circuit. The entire building is fully accessible to persons with disabilities, ensuring that all visitors can partake in this historical experience. A Tinsley Dry Goods Store gift shop is conveniently located contiguous to the Lincoln-Herndon building. It’s important to note that, as of the provided information, the site is currently closed for renovations.
Old State Capitol: Illinois’ Historic Heart
The Old State Capitol, situated at Old State Capitol Plaza at 6th & Adams Streets in Springfield, stands as a reconstruction of Illinois’ statehouse from 1840 to 1876. This building is significant not only for its role in early Illinois governance but also for its connection to pivotal moments in American history, including the civil rights movement of the twentieth century, where figures like John Jones and Frances Gage worked to expand the meaning of freedom. It was also within these walls that Abraham Lincoln delivered his famous “House Divided” speech.
Visitors are invited to explore the Old State Capitol through either guided or self-guided walks. Staff members are readily available to answer questions as guests view the building. The site operates Tuesday through Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.. While reservations are accepted, they are not required, and guests can call 217-524-3971 or email [email protected] for questions or to make reservations. There is no admission charge for the tour, but donations to support the historic site are highly appreciated and can be made online or during a visit.
Access to the Old State Capitol is available from either the east (6th Street) or south (Adams Plaza) gates. Visitors are asked for patience as the grounds are currently undergoing re-conditioning efforts. For convenience, restrooms and bottle-filling water stations are located on a lower level. The site permits registered service dogs inside but restricts other pets.
Indoor capacity is set at 150 guests. Visitors are encouraged to use provided hand sanitizing stations, and a strict policy prohibits touching any historic furniture, artwork, or other artifacts, regardless of sanitizer use. An accessible entrance is available via a kiosk on the Adams Street Plaza, with an elevator providing access to the upper level of the parking garage and a call button for entry assistance.
Parking is available in an hourly-rate underground parking garage located beneath the Old State Capitol, with an entrance on Sixth Street between Adams and Washington. The rate is $1.50 per 30 minutes, and the garage operates Monday to Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.. Metered street parking may also be an option, but City of Springfield parking meters are enforced Monday through Friday.
The site welcomes photography and video throughout, both indoors and outdoors, asking only that visitors be respectful of artifacts and other guests. The Old State Capitol also has a presence on Facebook and Instagram, and an introductory video is available on YouTube for those wishing to learn more in advance of their visit. The site observes specific holiday closings including New Year’s Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Presidents Day, Labor Day, Independence Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day.
Vachel Lindsay Home: A Poet’s Sanctuary
The Vachel Lindsay Home, located at 603 South 5th Street, Springfield, is the birthplace and lifelong residence of Vachel Lindsay, renowned as a poet, illustrator, and pioneering film critic. From this home base, Lindsay traveled extensively across America, captivating early twentieth-century audiences with his powerful spoken-word performances, achieving international fame. Today, his words continue to inspire people of all ages.
Tours of the Vachel Lindsay Home are available strictly by appointment only. Guests can request an appointment by calling 217-782-6776 or emailing [email protected]. The site offers a 30-minute guided tour. Due to limited tour capacity, reservations are required. There is no charge for the tour, but donations to support the historic site are appreciated. Visitors are asked to report to the front door of the house 5-10 minutes before their reserved tour time for check-in. While reservations are highly recommended, guests without one may inquire about tour availability at the front door.
The home has specific tour policies: tickets are required for all members of a party. Service animals are welcome, but pets are not allowed inside the home, and there are no on-site pet boarding facilities; pets cannot be left unattended outside. Metered street parking is available directly in front of the house on Fifth Street, with meters enforced Monday-Friday only. Alternatively, guests are welcome to use the free parking lot for the Dana-Thomas House, located approximately three blocks away at 4th and Lawrence Streets.
Photography, video, and other recording are permitted throughout the site, both indoors and out, with the exception of drone photography. The Vachel Lindsay Home observes holiday closings including New Year’s Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Lincoln’s Birthday, President’s Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day. However, it remains open on Juneteenth, Columbus Day, and Veteran’s Day.
General Information and Accessibility Across Sites
Several general visitor considerations apply across these Illinois State Historic Sites. For Android users, there is a known issue with the donation payment processing function in the Illinois History mobile application; however, donations can still be processed through the website. Furthermore, teachers in Illinois schools (prekindergarten through 12th grade) can apply for grant funds to visit these sites on a field trip with their students, promoting educational engagement with history.
Contact information for the State Historic Preservation Office (Preservation Services) is IDNR-One Natural Resources Way, Springfield, IL 62702-1271, with a phone number of (217) 782-4836. For general Historic Sites inquiries, the contact is DNR-One Natural Resources Way, Springfield, IL. 62702-1271, and the phone number is (217) 782-6302. Justin Blandford serves as the Superintendent of the Office of Land Management, Historic Sites Division, and can be reached at [email protected] or 217-524-3971. Quick links for visitors include forms & applications and direct donation portals to the Historic Sites. The sites also maintain a strong online presence through social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram to connect with the public.
These sites collectively represent Illinois’ dedication to preserving its rich past and making it accessible and engaging for both residents and visitors from around the world. Each memorial and historic building tells a unique story, contributing to a deeper understanding of American history and the sacrifices that shaped it.
