Old State Capitol State Historic Site

🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆 Illinois History — Where Abraham Lincoln delivered his “House Divided” speech on June 16, 1858 — “A house divided against itself cannot stand!” Also where Lincoln lay in state after his assassination. Barack Obama announced his presidential candidacy here in 2007!

Visitor Information

About Old State Capitol

Old State Capitol State Historic Site in Springfield preserves the Greek Revival capitol building where Abraham Lincoln served in the Illinois legislature, delivered his famous “House Divided” speech (1858), and lay in state after his assassination in 1865. The building also hosted Barack Obama’s presidential campaign announcement in 2007 — making it a site connected to two Illinois presidents.

Things to Do

Touring the restored legislative chambers, standing where Lincoln delivered the “House Divided” speech, visiting the Supreme Court courtroom, and viewing exhibits on Lincoln’s political career. The building anchors Springfield’s Lincoln Heritage walking district. Free admission.

About Old State Capitol

Old State Capitol State Historic Site in Springfield is where Abraham Lincoln delivered his “House Divided” speech (1858), argued cases before the Illinois Supreme Court, and lay in state after his assassination in 1865. The Greek Revival building served as the state capitol from 1839-1876. Barack Obama announced his presidential candidacy here in 2007 — connecting two Illinois presidents.

Things to Do

Touring the restored legislative chambers, standing where Lincoln delivered “House Divided,” viewing the Illinois Supreme Court room, attending historical programs, and visiting where Obama launched his presidential campaign. Free admission.

Insider Tips

Lincoln’s political stage: The Old State Capitol in Springfield is where Lincoln delivered his famous “House Divided” speech (1858), served in the state legislature, and lay in state after his assassination. Pro tip: The building was dismantled, raised 11 feet, and reconstructed on a new foundation in the 1890s — a remarkable engineering feat. Obama connection: Barack Obama announced his presidential candidacy from the Old State Capitol steps in 2007.

Best Time to Visit

Year-round: Indoor exhibits. February: Lincoln’s birthday events. Summer: Peak tourist season. Fall: Quieter visits, comfortable weather.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the “House Divided” speech?

“A house divided against itself cannot stand. I believe this government cannot endure permanently half slave and half free.” Lincoln’s 1858 speech accepting the Republican Senate nomination framed the slavery debate in moral terms that resonated nationally. It’s considered one of the most important political speeches in American history.

Wildlife & Nature

The Old State Capitol State Historic Site in downtown Springfield — Illinois’ state capitol from 1840 to 1876 — is where Abraham Lincoln delivered his famous “House Divided” speech on June 16, 1858, declaring that “a house divided against itself cannot stand.” Lincoln argued cases before the Illinois Supreme Court in this building and lay in state here after his assassination in 1865. The Greek Revival building — originally constructed in 1837-1840 and reconstructed in the 1960s using many original stones — represents the architectural aspirations of a young frontier state. Springfield’s urban parks and mature tree-lined streets support diverse bird populations. Chimney swifts roost in hundreds in large chimneys during migration. Peregrine falcons have adapted to nesting on tall buildings.

Nearby Attractions

Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum is two blocks away. Lincoln’s Tomb at Oak Ridge Cemetery. Lincoln Home National Historic Site preserves a four-block neighborhood. Dana-Thomas House — Frank Lloyd Wright’s best-preserved early work. Illinois State Capitol is nearby. Route 66 passes through Springfield. New Salem State Historic Site — Lincoln’s village home. Cozy Dog Drive In — Route 66 icon and alleged corn dog birthplace.