Springfield Illinois, Hometown of Abraham Lincoln

   When planning out our trip, Springfield Illinois was a stop we knew we wanted to make.  It was on our original plan (pre-covid), and we managed to fit it into our revised schedule.  Springfield is the city where Abe Lincoln lived his adult life, prior to becoming president.   

    As a young man, Lincoln lived in New Salem, Illinois, which is a short distance to Springfield.  While living in New Salem, Lincoln took odd jobs and was a boarder.  He basically set out on his own, working as a store clerk, surveyor and also the towns postmaster. He joined the state militia and studied law.  

    We enjoyed a day walking around New Salem.  Most of the buildings are not original, but it's interesting to walk around the area, where Lincoln set out on his own and became a man. 

    Springfield is where Abraham lived, as a husband, father and attorney.  It is here where he met his future wife, Mary Todd.  And it was from here that he was voted president of the United States.  The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum and Library is a beautiful museum dedicated to the life and times of Abraham Lincoln.  It is a very nice museum, set up with a few high tech theaters, and many interesting displays.  Fortunately we were able to buy tickets while we were there, as there is limited access at this time.   We very much enjoyed our time learning about Lincoln's life, his run for the presidency, and the controversy regarding slavery.  The country was in a state of turmoil, and Lincoln was hated by many.  It is hard to imagine living at that time.  A mere 160 years later, and that dark time in our country is still haunting us.  The country has come very far, and yet, we still have dark times.  We would definitely recommend a stop in Springfield if you are in the area.  

    Also in Springfield, there is a National Park dedicated to the home and street where Lincoln and Mary Todd lived while he lived in Springfield as an attorney, US Senator and ran for Presidency. It is here that he and his wife raised their children.  While we were able to walk the streets, the buildings were all closed at this time.  The Lincoln's never returned to Springfield after he was elected.   

The street where the Lincolns lived.

The Lincoln Home 

Also in Springfield, is the old Courthouse, where Mr. Lincoln practiced law.  Can't help but wonder how many times Abe walked up and down the stairs in the courthouse. 

    Springfield is also home to Lincoln's tomb.  It is a beautiful monument to a man who was a giant of his time.  A fitting tribute, to an amazing President.

        As I am sure our current state of affairs will be one for the history books, life is so much better now than it was in the 1800's.  That was such a turbulant times.  There were no phones, computers, cars or planes.  Just newspapers, trains, horses and wagons and of course the Post Office.  

We both have a had a lot of respect for President Lincoln before our Springfield visit.  This visit only enriched it.  He was a Giant of a Man and we were so fortunate to have had him there for our country when we needed him the most.  His life was never easy, but he always rose to the occasion and did what was best for the country.  

Lincoln's actual grave site inside memorial 

Recreation of his In State Funeral in Capital House Chamber