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Current News

Movie Premiere June 22: ‘The Underground Railroad in Metamora’
Monday, May 26, 2025

The Metamora Association for Historic Preservation is proud to host a movie premier about the Underground Railroad in Metamora on June 22, 2025 at 3:00 pm.

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ALNHA added to the National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom
Tuesday, May 6, 2025

NPS adds the ALNHA to the Underground Railroad Network to Freedom Program

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Seeking Extras for 8th Judicial Circuit Video
Thursday, April 24, 2025

Looking for Lincoln is currently in the process of creating a documentary about Abraham Lincoln and his work and on the 8th Judicial Circuit.

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Upcoming Events

Journey to Freedom: Illinois’ Underground Railroad Exhibit - Old State Capitol
Sunday, June 1, 2025 - Monday, September 1, 2025

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.

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HISTORY COMES ALIVE
Friday, June 6, 2025 - Wednesday, August 6, 2025

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!

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GRANDE LEVEE
Saturday, June 14, 2025 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

The Grande Levee is a celebration of the grand receptions that took place during the 1800s to honor government dignitaries and important visitors when Vandalia was the seat of Illinois state government. Visitors can enjoy period demonstrations, the selling of wares, an Abraham Lincoln presenter, period folk music, children’s area with fun period games, and tours of the Vandalia Statehouse. Event is free and open to the public.

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Full Schedule of Events

Regional Highlight

The Lincoln Depot or Great Western Depot is the place where Abraham Lincoln left Springfield as President elect en route to D.C. On the morning of Feb 11, 1861 Lincoln said his final goodbyes to friends and supporters at the depot before boarding the train. At 8 am Lincoln gave an impromptu speech to a crowd of over 1000 people who had gathered to see him off. You can visit the first floor of the Lincoln depot which offers a self-guided tour.

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