Old State Capitol State Historic SiteAbout Old State Capitol State Historic Site
The Old State Capitol State Historic Site in Springfield, Illinois is a Greek Revival statehouse completed around 1840 that served as Illinois’ capitol through the 19th century. It is a focal point of Illinois political history and 19th century civic architecture.
Restored public rooms include the House and Senate chambers and a central rotunda, presented with period furnishings and legislative-era details that illustrate how the building functioned as a working capitol. Interpreters and exhibit panels focus on mid-19th century state government and notable events connected to the building.
Construction took place in the late 1830s and the building served as the Illinois state capitol through the mid 1870s. It is closely tied to Abraham Lincoln and other Illinois political figures; the site has been preserved and restored to reflect its 19th century appearance.
The Old State Capitol sits in downtown Springfield, within the cluster of Abraham Lincoln-related historic sites and about 200 miles southwest of Chicago.
- Lincoln connections: Site is closely associated with Abraham Lincoln - his 1858 “House Divided” address was delivered here and his body lay in state here in 1865.
What to See#
- House Chamber: Restored legislative space used for public programs and guided tours; the chamber displays period furnishings and interpretive panels about 19th century Illinois government.
- Senate Chamber: Historic upper chamber restored to show how the Illinois Senate met during the mid 1800s, with gallery seating and legislative furniture.
- Rotunda: Central rotunda beneath the building’s cupola with period architectural details and lines of sight used in public tours.
Nearby Attractions to Old State Capitol State Historic Site
Best Time to Visit Old State Capitol State Historic Site
Spring through autumn is best for combining outdoor historical walking tours with the Capitol visit.
Weather & Climate near Old State Capitol State Historic Site
Old State Capitol State Historic Site's climate is classified as Hot-Summer Continental - Hot-Summer Continental climate with hot summers (peaking in July) and freezing winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from -8°C to 31°C. Moderate rainfall (930 mm/year).
| Month | Comfort | Temp | Feels | Rain | Sky | Humidity | Wind | UV | Daylight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | - | -8° - 1° | -9° | 42 mm | - | - | 4.5 m/s | - | - |
| February | - | -6° - 4° | -5° | 45 mm | - | - | 4.4 m/s | - | - |
| March | - | 0° - 11° | 2° | 81 mm | - | - | 4.8 m/s | - | - |
| April | - | 6° - 18° | 12° | 92 mm | - | - | 4.8 m/s | - | - |
| May | - | 12° - 24° | 18° | 106 mm | - | - | 3.9 m/s | - | - |
| June | - | 17° - 29° | 23° | 98 mm | - | - | 3.3 m/s | - | - |
| July | - | 19° - 31° | 25° | 92 mm | - | - | 2.8 m/s | - | - |
| August | - | 18° - 30° | 24° | 88 mm | - | - | 2.6 m/s | - | - |
| September | - | 13° - 27° | 20° | 80 mm | - | - | 2.9 m/s | - | - |
| October | - | 7° - 20° | 13° | 67 mm | - | - | 3.6 m/s | - | - |
| November | - | 1° - 11° | 3° | 73 mm | - | - | 4.3 m/s | - | - |
| December | - | -5° - 4° | -5° | 66 mm | - | - | 4.4 m/s | - | - |
How to Get to Old State Capitol State Historic Site
The Old State Capitol is in downtown Springfield, adjacent to the Illinois State Capitol and within walking distance of other Lincoln-associated sites. It is accessible by car, local bus and on foot from nearby downtown hotels.
Tips for Visiting Old State Capitol State Historic Site
- Join one of the ranger-led tours or interpretive programs when available to hear readings of Lincoln-era documents.
- Walk down from the Old State Capitol to the adjacent Illinois Executive Mansion and Springfield downtown to place the building in civic context.
- Check hours around state holidays-special events often change visitor schedules.