Lincoln Depot
Great Western Depot
The Great Western Railway station where Lincoln gave his farewell address in 1861 before leaving for Washington to take office. It is now a small exhibition hall.
The Lincoln Depot was the Great Western Railway station. On February 11, 1861, Lincoln, then president-elect, boarded a train to Washington from here. On the platform he delivered a moving 'Farewell to Springfield' speech to the citizens, and he never came back alive. The brick station has been restored as a small exhibition hall, showing the station waiting room of the day, Lincoln's journey and the text of his speech. It is generally open only in spring and summer, and admission is free. It is just two blocks from the Lincoln Home, so it is easy to add to your route.
Opening hours
Approx. Apr–Aug, 10:00–16:00
Nearby sights
- Lincoln Home National Historic Site
- Lincoln-Herndon Law Offices State Historic Site
- Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum
- Old State Capitol State Historic Site
- Illinois Governor's Mansion
- Illinois State Museum
- Dana–Thomas House
- Illinois State Capitol