Lincoln Tomb & War Memorials
Springfield, Illinois is a city steeped in history, with Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States, being its most famous citizen. So, it is fitting that Springfield is home to numerous memorials honoring Abraham Lincoln and the American Civil War. The Lincoln Tomb is one of the most notable of these memorials.
The Lincoln Tomb is a granite structure found in Springfield, Illinois’s Oak Ridge Cemetery. It was built between 1869 and 1874 under the direction of architect Larkin G. Mead. Abraham Lincoln, his wife Mary Todd Lincoln, and three of their four children, Edward, William, and Thomas, are interred in the tomb.
The mausoleum is an extraordinary building with a height of 117 feet and a massive bronze figure of Abraham Lincoln produced by the same sculptor who designed Mount Rushmore. The statue is around 10,000 pounds and measures approximately 19 feet tall. The interior of the tomb is stunning, with marble flooring, walls, and a roof adorned with beautiful artwork.
Visitors can take a guided tour of the Lincoln Tomb site, which includes the interior of the tomb and the surrounding War Memorials. The War Memorials are a collection of sculptures and plaques honoring the men and women who participated in numerous American wars, such as the Revolutionary War, the War of 1812, and the Spanish-American War. Added on the site in the early 20th century, the memorials are a fitting tribute to those who gave their lives for their country.
The Korean War Memorial in Springfield is another notable war memorial. The memorial, located in Oak Ridge Park, was erected in 1996 and commemorates the Korean War veterans. A stone wall at the memorial displays the names of the 1,100 Illinoisans who perished in the fight. In addition to a map of Korea, the wall bears the slogan “Freedom is not free.”
The Korean War Memorial is a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by those who fought in the war. It honors the valiant men and women who battled for their country and the cause of freedom.
In addition to the Lincoln Tomb and the numerous war memorials, Springfield is home to a number of other noteworthy Abraham Lincoln-related structures. Lincoln served as a legislator and delivered his famous “House Divided” address at the Old State Capitol, which has been restored to its 1850s form and is open to the public. The Lincoln House National Historic Site, located in the historic district of Springfield, is the only home that Abraham Lincoln ever owned and has been maintained as a museum.
History buffs must also visit the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, located in downtown Springfield. The museum shows Lincoln’s life and legacy, including a reproduction of the White House as it appeared during his presidency and a collection of his personal items.
Overall, Springfield, Illinois is a city steeped in history and a must-see site for Civil War and Abraham Lincoln enthusiasts. The Lincoln Tomb, War Memorials, and other historic sites serve as potent reminders of the sacrifices made by those who fought for their country and the principles of freedom and democracy.
By viewing these landmarks and contemplating the impact they have had on American history, visitors to Springfield can get a profound respect for the hardships and victories of the past. Whether you are a history enthusiast or simply interested in seeing new places, Springfield offers an experience that will make a lasting impact.