About this Event
We're excited to bring you a new series of Civil War education programs at the Old State Capitol State Historic Site. On the Saturdays listed below, the Old State Capitol will be open for self-guided tours from 5:00-7:00 pm with Presentations will vary week to week, but may include discussions with interpretive staff, interpreters in historic clothing, historic photography, props, artifacts, and/or hands-on activities.
This program is free and open to all ages; reservations are optional.
During the month of May, History Nights will feature short 20-minute presentations on weekly themes at 5:00, 5:45, and 6:30 pm. May themes include:
Saturday, May 23 - Origins of Memorial Day, learn about Memorial Day's origins in commemorating the Civil War in Illinois
Saturday, May 30 -Kansas-Nebraska Act, a look at the impact of this controversial law, and how it helped bring about the Civil War, on the anniversary of Franklin Pierce signing it
In June, July, and August, History Nights will feature these two History Comes Alive programs:
5:30-6:00 pm: Custodian of Freedom: William H. Butler's Capitol Tour Hear the story of William H. Butler, Underground Railroad station master and a delegate to Illinois' first Colored Citizens Convention
6:30-7:00 pm: Frederick Douglass, Abolitionist & Orator Frederick Douglass recounts his visit to Springfield one year after Lincoln's assassination, sharing his powerful message of equality and national healing
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Old State Capitol State Historic Site, 526 East Adams Street, Springfield, United States
USD 0.00
