Events

Looking for Lincoln presents the travelling exhibit, Journey to Freedom Illinois’ Underground Railroad. The courageous stories of freedom seekers, and the multi-racial conductors who assisted them, are highlighted in this new exhibit about the Underground Railroad in Illinois. Learn about the network of people, who often at great risk to themselves, collaborated to assist those searching for freedom and dignity.

History Comes Alive transports you back to 19th Century Springfield. Immerse yourself in Lincoln’s hometown while meeting our largest cast of historical reenactors yet. Live performances, a variety of demonstrations, as well as special presentations of some of Lincoln’s most famous speeches. Springfi eld is truly a city where History Comes Alive! Free downtown trolley service to historic sites Wed-Sat!

Union Pacific will bring its Abraham Lincoln Locomotive to Springfield Illinois on July 1, to note the railroad’s 163rd birthday.

Date: Tuesday, July 1, 2025

Public Viewing: 2:30-4:30 p.m.

Location: Amtrak Station, 100 North 3rd Street, Springfield

Union Pacific Railroad's newest commemorative locomotive that honors Lincoln’s role in laying the foundation for America’s best-in-the-world freight rail system.

Lincoln founded Union Pacific with the signing of the historic Pacific Railway Act on July 1, 1862, which authorized construction of the nation’s first transcontinental railroad network.

“Union Pacific is incredibly proud of our heritage, and we are honored to share this special locomotive in the hometown of the man who brought our railroad to life and unleashed economic prosperity,” said Liisa Stark, vice president of Public Affairs for Union Pacific Railroad. “We think Lincoln would have been proud of the vital role railroads serve today in delivering the goods and products essential for everyday life in America.”

“It is an incredible honor for Springfield to host Union Pacific Railroad on this historic milestone and to welcome the Lincoln Locomotive to the hometown of our 16th president. Abraham Lincoln’s vision helped unite a nation, and that legacy lives on through the railroads that continue to connect communities and drive economic progress. Being named a Train Town USA is a proud recognition of Springfield’s enduring role in our nation’s rail history,” said Springfield Mayor Misty Buscher.

The event is sponsored by Union Pacific, the Lincoln Presidential Foundation, Looking for Lincoln and Hanson Professional Services. Special guests at the event included Springfield Mayor Misty Buscher, Illinois Railroad Association President Tim Butler, Lincoln Presidential Foundation President and CEO Erin Mast, National Park Service Superintendent Chris Collins, Union Pacific Vice President – Public Affairs Liisa Stark and Union Pacific Senior Director – Public Affairs in Illinois Tom Evenson.

More information about Union Pacific is available at www.up.com

Looking for Lincoln presents the travelling exhibit, Journey to Freedom Illinois’ Underground Railroad. The courageous stories of freedom seekers, and the multi-racial conductors who assisted them, are highlighted in this new exhibit about the Underground Railroad in Illinois. Learn about the network of people, who often at great risk to themselves, collaborated to assist those searching for freedom and dignity.

Looking for Lincoln presents the travelling exhibit, Journey to Freedom Illinois’ Underground Railroad. The courageous stories of freedom seekers, and the multi-racial conductors who assisted them, are highlighted in this new exhibit about the Underground Railroad in Illinois. Learn about the network of people, who often at great risk to themselves, collaborated to assist those searching for freedom and dignity.

Step back in time to the 1800s at the Log Cabin Village. Learn how felt hats and rugs were made, what church was like, and visit with the ladies who will be having tea. Other activities include wool spinning, chair caning, music and games. Food will be available for purchase, and stop by the Clat Adams cabin/store to see what’s new. Frontier Day is held on Quinsippi Island, just past All America Park.

On the 165th Anniversary of the famous Lincoln-Douglas Debate, Jonesboro celebrates at Lincoln Memorial Park. The program will include a 21-gun and cannon salute, and a minute of bell-ringing to mark the occasion. Soloists, speakers, and essayist will present the program. Children’s games, music, and food begin at 4:30 pm, with the program at 5:30 pm. This eventis a great opportunity to explore this beautiful, but often overlooked part of Illinois.

Come celebrate the arrival of autumn at the Harvest Frolic. The event is free and open to the public. Don’t miss experiencing 19th-century life on the farm. Activities will take place at both the Lincoln and Sargent farms and will include children’s games, crafts, hearth cooking, and activities. A number of artisans will be on site demonstrating their crafts including, spinning, pottery, broom making, blacksmithing, embroidery, and many other 19th-century crafts.