Old State Capitol State Historic Site
Old State Capitol
A Greek Revival former state capitol where Lincoln delivered his famous 'House Divided' speech. His casket also lay in state here after his death.
The Old State Capitol was built between 1837 and 1840 as the fifth state capitol of Illinois. This sandstone Greek Revival building stands on the square in the city center. Lincoln served here as a state legislator and argued cases before the state supreme court. In 1858 he delivered his 'A House Divided Cannot Stand' speech here. After his assassination in 1865, his casket was brought back to Springfield and lay in state in the House chamber so the public could pay their respects. In 2007, Barack Obama also announced his presidential campaign in front of the building. The interior has been restored to its appearance in the 1840s and 1850s, and visitors can tour the House chamber, the Senate chamber and the Supreme Court. The building closed for renovation in 2023 and is reopening in phases. Admission is free, but check the official website of Illinois historic sites before your trip. The surrounding square has restaurants, and the Lincoln-Herndon Law Offices are nearby.
Opening hours
Approx. 09:00–17:00 (check the official website during renovation)
Nearby sights
- Lincoln-Herndon Law Offices State Historic Site
- Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum
- Illinois State Museum
- Illinois Governor's Mansion
- Lincoln Home National Historic Site
- Lincoln Depot
- Illinois State Capitol
- Dana–Thomas House