How Much Do You Know About The Unique History of Springfield?

Springfield is a place like no other. And whether you grew up here, recently moved to the area or you’re just an occasional visitor, you know that Springfield has its own special traditions and history that make it so unique.

A few things to know:

• Springfield is known as the "Land of Lincoln" as it is the home and final resting place of Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States. Visitors can tour his home, his tomb, and the Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum which houses a vast collection of Lincoln artifacts and memorabilia.
• Springfield is also the home of the Dana-Thomas House, designed by world-renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright. This house is considered one of his most important early works and is open for tours.
• The Illinois State Capitol, located in Springfield, is the fifth-tallest dome in the world and is a National Historic Landmark. Visitors can take a free guided tour of the building and learn about its history and architecture.
• Springfield has a rich brewing history, dating back to the 1800s. Today, visitors can visit several local breweries such as Obed and Isaac's Microbrewery and Eatery, Rolling Meadows Brewery, and White Oak Brewing.
• Springfield is also home to the Illinois State Fair, which is held annually in August at the Illinois State Fairgrounds. The fair features agricultural exhibits, live music, carnival rides, and delicious fair food. It's a great way to experience the history and culture of Illinois.
• The Illinois State Fairgrounds also hosts other events and activities throughout the year, such as the Illinois State Fairgrounds RV Show, the Illinois State Fairgrounds Gun and Knife Show and the Illinois State Fairgrounds Home and Garden Show. (Visit Springfield Illinois)
• The Henson Robinson Zoo, located in Springfield, is home to over 200 animals from around the world. It is known for its African Savannah exhibit and its interactive animal encounters.
• Springfield is home to the Knights Action Park and Caribbean Water Adventure, a family-friendly amusement park and water park. It features a wide variety of rides and attractions, including a roller coaster and a lazy river.
• The Illinois State Military Museum, located in Springfield, tells the story of Illinois' military history from the Civil War to the present day. It is home to a vast collection of artifacts, uniforms, weapons, and other military memorabilia.
• The Illinois State Museum, also located in Springfield, has a collection of over 13 million artifacts and specimens that tell the story of Illinois' natural and cultural history. It offers interactive exhibits and a planetarium show.
• Springfield is home to several historical sites, including the Old State Capitol, which served as the Illinois State Capitol from 1839 to 1876. It is open to visitors, and guided tours are available to learn about the building's history and architecture.
• The Illinois State Museum Society's Research and Collections Center is a hidden gem in Springfield. Visitors can go behind the scenes of the Illinois State Museum, including the conservation lab, research library, and archives.
• The Thomas Rees Memorial Carillon, located in Washington Park, is a set of 67 bells that plays music every day at noon and on Sundays at 2:00 p.m. It is the fourth-largest carillon in the world and offers tours and climbing the tower.
• The Lincoln Home National Historic Site is a must-see attraction. This is the only home ever owned by Abraham Lincoln and it is open to visitors year-round. Visitors can tour the home, which has been preserved to look as it did when Lincoln lived there.

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