Last updated: November 27, 2021
Place
Abraham Lincoln Home
NPS Photo
Quick Facts
Location:
8th Street & Jackson Street, Springfield, IL
Significance:
This house was the home of Abraham Lincoln and his family from 1849 to 1861.
Designation:
National Park, Heritage Area, National Historic Landmark, HABS/HAER/HALS
Amenities
7 listed
Cellular Signal, First Aid Kit Available, Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits, Information - Ranger/Staff Member Present, Internet/WiFi Available, Scenic View/Photo Spot, Wheelchair Accessible
Abraham Lincoln came of age while living and working as a private citizen in Springfield, Illinois. It was here that he chose to settle down, build a life for himself and his family, and worked hard to achieve success. At the same time, many of Lincoln's social and political beliefs were formed while he lived in this house at Eighth and Jackson Streets.
The house that would become the future Lincoln Home was built in 1839 for the Reverend Charles Dresser. Dresser actually married Abraham Lincoln and Mary Todd in 1842. When the house was completed, the house stood one-and-a-half stories tall with five rooms, including a sleeping loft.
In May 1844, the Lincolns purchased the Dresser home and lot for $1500. Abraham, Mary, and Robert, born August 1, 1843, moved into the comfortable home. During the 17 years the Lincolns lived in this home, three of the Lincoln children were born--Edward "Eddie" Lincoln in 1846, William "Willie" Lincoln in 1850, and Thomas "Tad" Lincoln in 1853. Eddie sadly died in the Lincoln Home of "consumption" when he was nearly 4 years old.
The Lincolns continued to live in the house until departing for the White House in February 1861. Although they had planned to return, the Lincolns never came back to live in their house on the corner of Eighth and Jackson Streets. Today, the restored house reflects the Lincoln Home of 1860.
The inside of the Lincoln Home is only accessible to the public by taking a guided tour of the Lincoln Home. Tickets for the guided tour are free of charge and can be obtained at the Visitor Center located one block west of the Lincoln Home, at 426 South 7th Street.