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Guide to Lincoln Historic Sites near Jacksonville, IL


Abraham Lincoln is a big part of Illinois history and that shows in and around Jacksonville. The city, along with nearby Springfield, boast a wide array of historical sites connected to the 16th president of the U.S. Many of the Lincoln sites are free, making them some great places to see when you visit Illinois. Villa DeWolf's travel guide will help you best navigate the nearby attractions when you visit Jacksonville and Springfield.

Looking for Lincoln


Looking for Lincoln serves as a coordinating entity for the various Abraham Lincoln National Heritage Area counties. In Jacksonville, this program allows you to follow in the footsteps of the former president, leading you to many Lincoln sites. This audio tour allows you to see the impact Lincoln had on Jacksonville and to learn more about his history. Many of the sites have wayside exhibits that are part of a statewide effort.

Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum


  • Address: 212 N. Sixth St. Springfield, IL
  • Hours: Museum hours are from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. while the library is from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
  • Cost: For the library, $15 for adults, $6 for children (5-15) and $12 for seniors (62+). Library is free.
What better place to start your Abraham Lincoln history tour than with the presidential library and museum. This Springfield location offers insight into many key parts in Lincoln's life through exhibits, artifacts and live performances. The library side offers occasional special exhibits as well as collections of documents for research. The many options makes this museum one of the best things to do in Springfield.

Oak Ridge Cemetery


  • Address: 1500 Monument Ave. Springfield, IL
  • Hours: 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. September through March; 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. April through August
  • Cost: Free
Come see the final resting place of Abraham Lincoln. Oak Ridge Cemetery is home to Lincoln's tomb, which offers interior tours. Lincoln isn't the only one buried at this site. His wife Mary as well as his three children are buried at this spot. While tours are free, donations can be made. To enjoy a tour, make sure you register ahead of time.

Lincoln Home


  • Address: 426 S. Seventh St. Springfield, IL
  • Hours: 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
  • Cost: Free for tour tickets but there is a $2 parking lot day fee.
Explore the home Abraham and Mary Lincoln bought upon moving to Springfield. This historic site offers guided tours of the home starting at 9 a.m. Tours last about 20-25 minutes. The home isn't the only activity. You can explore the surrounding park that houses outdoor and indoor exhibits. You can also watch either a movie about the Lincolns or enjoy a living history demonstration. Either way, you are sure to enjoy this informative Illinois historical site.

Governor Duncan Mansion


  • Address: 4 Duncan Place, Jacksonville, IL
  • Hours: 1-4 p.m. Memorial Day to Labor Day, Wednesdays and Saturdays
  • Cost: Free but donations are accepted
A fun part about studying Lincoln's life is learning about those adjacent to him. The Governor Duncan Mansion provides a great opportunity to do just that as Joseph and Elizabeth Duncan built the mansion in 1834. Joseph was governor from 1834-38 and tradition dictates Lincoln visited the home when both men were part of the Whig Party. Tours are available at this site.

General Benjamin Grierson Mansion


  • Address: 852 E. State St. Jacksonville, IL
  • Hours: By appointment
  • Cost: Free
The Civil War was a big part of Lincoln's presidency, meaning he had a good relationship with Gen. Benjamin Grierson. In the mid-1850s, Grierson joined Lincoln in the new Republican Party, eventually leading to him writing campaign music for Lincoln's first presidential campaign. Grierson then served in the Civil War, becoming a famed Union general during that time. Tours at the mansion are by appointment only so call ahead.