Skip to main content
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...

Old Capitol Farmers' Market in Downtown Springfield

Downtown Springfield-Corner of 4th & Adams St •  May 15 – Oct 26 @ 8PM

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

Read more about Old Capitol Farmers' Market in Downtown Springfield

Old Capitol Art Fair

Downtown Springfield •  May 18 – May 19 @ 10AM

Art lovers find new love and appreciation for artistic expression at the Springfield Old Capitol Art Fair. Discover fine art and hidden jewels from…

Read more about Old Capitol Art Fair

Springfield Pridefest

Downtown Springfield •  May 18 @ 11AM

Family friendly street festival celebrating the LGBTQ community and equality in our community. The event features a kid's area, teen area, over 50 vendors, live music,…

Read more about Springfield Pridefest

You might also be interested...

Elijah Iles House: Springfield's History Museum

Springfield

Learn about early Springfield at the home of one of the city's founding fathers, Elijah Iles.

Read more about Elijah Iles House: Springfield's History Museum

Lincoln Home National Historic Site

Springfield

The national historic site, run by the National Park Service, includes the only home Abraham Lincoln ever owned, as well as a four-block neighborhood that reveals…

Read more about Lincoln Home National Historic Site

Camp Butler National Cemetery

Springfield

Once the site of a Union Civil War training camp and Confederate prison, now a national cemetery for veterans and their dependents. There are over 25,000…

Read more about Camp Butler National Cemetery

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

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