About Springfield

Known for being the capital of Illinois and the home of Abraham Lincoln, Springfield, Illinois is one captivating city. Its shape is that of a Latin cross positioned the same as a compass. It is the sixth capital building. The first one was in a town on the Mississippi River, Kaskaskia. The second was built on land by the Kaskaskia River, which became known as Vandalia. Since people wanted the capital in the middle of the state, it was to be moved to Springfield, with the help of Abe Lincoln and some of his colleagues persuasive efforts. Vandalia tore down the building for a bigger one, since Vandalia wanted to keep it there.

It was moved to Springfield, anyway. The fifth capital was finished in 1853, and it is here that Lincoln challenged Stephen Douglas, making his Housed Divided speech. As Illinois grew, this building became too small. It was sold, and the current capital building was built in 1868. Check out the Springfield, Illinois Yellow Pages, or the Springfield, Illinois Business Directory for more information before you visit.

Springfield, Illinois is also is the home of the phenomenal Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum. The building contains the largest collection of the Presidents and the family's papers and belongings. The Lincoln Library and Museum is divided into 12 sections. First, in the Plaza, which is the center of the museum, there are life size figures of the President and his family. The Treasures Gallery is full of photos of the family, along with china, crystal, and other items that the family used. Mrs. Lincolns Attic is a play area for children that is hands on. Children can play dress up, either as Lincoln or Mary. Journey One is all about the pre-Presidential Years. It begins with an entrance into a log cabin. The Union Theater presents Lincolns Eyes, a film told by an artist who is painting the Presidents portrait. Journey Two is all about the White House years. Ask Mr. Lincoln is an interactive theater where you can ask him questions. Ghosts of the Library takes you on a virtual tour of the building. The Gateway is a map that points out historic destinations in Illinois, and finally, there is the Museum Store. The Springfield, Illinois Yellow Pages and Springfield, Illinois Business Directory can give you more information about these two interesting sites. There you can find out hours, how to get there, their web sites and more.

Written by Lyndsey Morgan