Springfield
Springfield is the capital of Illinois.
A central prairie city closely connected to Abraham Lincoln’s life and leadership.
What makes the capitol special
The Illinois State Capitol was finished in 1888. It is famous for having the tallest traditional dome of any state capitol, rising 361 feet into the air. Inside, the ceilings feature stained glass with farming designs. A life-size statue of Abraham Lincoln stands at the entrance to honor his time in Springfield.
Three places to visit
- Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum – Learn about Lincoln’s life through interactive exhibits and rare historical items.
- Lincoln Home National Historic Site – Walk through the only house Abraham Lincoln ever owned, which still stands in a preserved historic neighborhood.
- Lincoln Tomb State Historic Site – Visit the final resting place of President Lincoln and his family at Oak Ridge Cemetery.
How the city got its name
Springfield was named after the nearby natural springs and the rich, fertile fields that supported the area’s first settlers.
Why this city became the capital
Springfield became the capital of Illinois in 1837. It replaced two earlier capitals: Kaskaskia (1818-1820) and Vandalia (1820-1837). The city was chosen because of its central location and the political efforts of Abraham Lincoln, who pushed hard for the move.
From Celine Carlson’s 50 State Capitals: A Field Guide by a Girl Who Visited Them All, based on her visits to all 50 state capitals. About the author · Sources and research notes.