Interactive Map

The Moore Home is the site of President-elect Abraham Lincoln’s last visit with his beloved stepmother Sarah and family before traveling to Washington, D.C. on January 31, 1861.  The home is that of Sarah’s daughter Matilda and her husband Reuben Moore.  The 1.5 story frame structure dating to the late 1850s, was reconstructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1936 and has been furnished with 1860s period pieces.

The furnished home exemplifies fine living in a long-ago era. It features information about the Third Lincoln-Douglas Debate, held in Jonesboro in 1858. Other historic items and pioneer families are also featured. Costumed guides will escort visitors through the home, and special programs will occur through-out the week-end. Please check the Facebook page for up-to-date information.  Call 618-697-1870 or 618-833-3228 for tours or events.

Opened in 1864, Spring Hill Cemetery is one of the oldest and largest cemeteries in Vermilion County. Gravesites related to Abraham Lincoln abound including those of Miriah Vance, his maid in Springfield, IL; General John Charles Black, Civil War Medal of Honor recipient; Colonel Oscar Harmon, friend of Lincoln and commander of the 125th Illinois Volunteer Infantry; Oliver Davis, judge, lawyer, and friend; and Dr. William Fithian, friend and client to name a few.

Open dawn to dusk.  An interpretive guide to the cemetery can be picked up at the office open Monday-Friday from 9 am to Noon and 1-3 PM.

Many visit this cemetery to see the burial site of Abraham Lincoln’s father and stepmother, Thomas Lincoln and Sarah Bush Lincoln.

Built circa 1838

The hotel was built by William Watson one of the first settler’s in Pittsfield. Abraham Lincoln and Stephen Douglas would gather in the lobby when they were in town. Later Watson would sell the hotel to Joel Pennington whose son Goyn became friends with John G. Nicolay. The hotel was a very active place. Rooms above with retail space below. By the late 1800s one could find lodging, a barber shop, blacksmith and tack shops.

Lincoln's history doesn't stop at Abraham Lincoln. Lincoln also later became a popular stop along the historic Route 66, beginning in its infancey in 1926. 
In 2007, the World's Largest Covered Wagon was added along Route 66 and is recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records. 

Stop by and get your passport stamped during normal business hours - Monday thru Friday, 8 am - 5 pm. You may wish to call beforehand to insure the building is open for visitors.

Charleston, located in Coles County, Illinois, is home to Eastern Illinois University, a public university with a strong reputation for its teaching programs. Our city is also known for its historic downtown district, and rich Lincoln history. Surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, including Lake Charleston, which provides opportunities for boating, fishing, and other outdoor activities, Charleston offers an abundance of outdoor recreation opportunities. Overall, Charleston is a charming and welcoming city that offers a range of cultural and recreational opportunities. Charleston gives you the best of rural living in a friendly community.

Get your Passport to Your National Parks book stamped at the Christian County Courthouse in downtown Taylorville.  

Hours: Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. - 8 p.m.; Friday 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Hours: Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.  The Passport Stamp was orginally at the Mississippi Bluffs Ranger District Office in Jonesboro until it was closed.