History Comes Alive

JUNE 5 - AUGUST 7, 2021

This summer History Comes Alive returns for its 12th season as Abraham and Mary Lincoln lead a cast of characters for a trip back in time that you won't want to miss. Meet the Lincolns at historic sites throughout the city, like the world-class Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, where you can learn about their lives in Springfield. Hear Lincoln deliver some of his most famous speeches or enjoy an ice cream social at Edwards Place, where the Lincolns would visit their friends, Benjamin and Helen Edwards.

New this year, Springfield's State Historic Sites invite you to check out Walk, Hike and Bike History tours, a brand new way to explore Illinois' capital city in 2021. This is a series of inspiring outdoor experiences, taking place mid-April through mid-November, that connect you to "must-see' museums and monuments in the capital city. Guided by history education interpreters from IDNR's Office of Land Management, Walk, Hike and Bike History experiences range in duration from one to two hours.

Saturdays bring other new elements to the season with a special edition tour provided by Springfield Walks on Saturday mornings and a late afternoon/early evening Party on the Plaza, a 1860s gathering on the grounds of the Old State Capitol with music, costumed period characters, activities and more. As the Party ends, join Springfield Walks for Lincoln's Ghost Walk Legends and Lore. Celebrating 16 years, Springfield Walks is perfect for your group with walks taking place Tuesday through Saturday.

Don't miss Lincoln's New Salem, with historic portrayals throughout the restored 1830s prairie village where Lincoln lived before moving to Springfield, or Lincoln Tomb, with its Flag Lowering Ceremony each Tuesday evening during the summer, featuring the 114th Regiment Illinois Volunteer Infantry Reactivated. Listen to concerts at Thomas Rees Memorial Carillon, one of the largest carillons in the world, located in beautiful Washington Park. Visit the Illinois State Military Museum where a veteran shares stories of service and the nearby Springfield and Central Illinois African American History Museum with appearances from important figures in African American history.

We'll see you there!

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FOR HISTORY COMES ALIVE
2021 SCHEDULE.