5/11/10 - Old Capitol State Historic Site

This majestic structure with its imposing porticoes and original facade allows guest to imagine the state capitol building as it was when Lincoln lived and worked in Springfield. It is here that he practiced law before the Supreme Court, spent countless hours bent over books in the state law library, served as a legislator, and most importantly, in 1858 gave his famous "House Divide Speech." After Lincoln was assassinated, his casket was brought here to the Capitol, and 75,000 mourners filed past it to pay their last respects.

"A house divided against itself cannot stand...."

This is the room he gave that speech from.

Note the lighting is candles on each desk.

This is the room Lincoln waited in and learned that he had been elected President.