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Welcome to downtown Springfield, Illinois, Mr. Lincoln’s neighborhood. As Mayor of this historic and beautiful city, it is an honor to welcome more than a million visitors each year to explore the unique attractions that have made Springfield a tourism destination for travelers from every corner of the world.
Springfield has been the Capitol of Illinois since Abraham Lincoln and the Long Nine successfully convinced the State Legislature to move its legislative body from Vandalia in 1837. The Old State Capitol which was impeccably restored by the State of Illinois in 1969, stands in a charming square that remains the heart of the city’s historic district. The Lincoln-Herndon Law Office is on the very same square and the Lincoln Home National Historic Site, the only home the Lincoln’s ever owned, is but a few blocks away. Stroll the streets of the city’s historic core and you walk where Lincoln walked. “Looking for Lincoln” a program celebrating the history of America’s 16th president, has erected interpretive street exhibits in the downtown area recognizing significant Lincoln sites by revealing stories of the Springfield that Lincoln knew.
A spectacular new addition to the downtown, the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum welcomes tens of thousands of visitors each and every week. This facility presents a unique way to experience the life of a 19th century President through 21st century technology. It also provides an innovative perspective on the war between the states.
The downtown is also home to the contemporary Capitol, a magnificent 20th century building, pulsing with activity as the State’s legislative body conducts its deliberations. The downtown is increasingly home to Springfieldians who have converted unused upper story space to residential dwellings. And it is home to a wide range of business and commerce, fine dining and entertainment, and year round events beginning with First Night celebrations of the New Year to the springtime-to-fall 24-week Farmer’s Market to traditional decorations and retail events during the annual Holiday Walk each December.
One of the brightest new features downtown is the Hoogland Center for the Arts, consolidating numerous cultural and performance venues in an exciting and beautiful site, an addition long awaited by Springfield citizens and visitors seeking a wide variety of entertainment close to downtown hotels.
The City that Lincoln Loved remains exciting, friendly and stimulating -- a wonderful place in which to live, work and enjoy both its glorious history and present vitality. As Mayor, I see a future true to the standards Mr. Lincoln would have expected in his hometown. We hope you will visit soon and we know you will love the experience.
Sincerely, Mayor Tim Davlin
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