Visit Illinois’ Free Historical Monuments

Illinois is a state with a rich history and culture. From the Native American tribes that resided in the area to the Europeans who settled there, the state has seen many people, cultures, and events. There are a number of historical monuments in Illinois that commemorate this history, and these monuments are free to visit.

Fort de Chartres

Located in Randolph County, Fort de Chartres was built in the late 1700s by the French as a military post. The fort was used to protect the French trade interests in the area and was the site of many of the earliest battles of the American Revolutionary War. Visitors to the fort can explore the ruins and learn about its history. There are also a number of interpretive exhibits and programs for visitors to enjoy.

Lincoln Home National Historic Site

The Lincoln Home National Historic Site is located in Springfield, Illinois and is the home of President Abraham Lincoln. The home was built in 1839 and is now a museum dedicated to Lincoln and his family. Visitors can explore the home and learn about Lincoln’s life and legacy. There are also a number of interpretive programs and tours available for visitors to take part in.

Ulysses S. Grant Home

The Ulysses S. Grant Home is located in Galena, Illinois. It was the home of President Ulysses S. Grant and is now a museum dedicated to his life and legacy. Visitors to the home can explore the house and learn about Grant’s life and his presidential legacy. There are also a number of interpretive programs and tours that visitors can take part in.

Old State Capitol

The Old State Capitol is located in Springfield, Illinois and is the former home of the Illinois state government. The building was constructed in 1837 and is now a museum dedicated to the history of the state. Visitors to the Old State Capitol can explore the building and learn about the state’s history. There are also a number of interpretive programs and tours available for visitors to take part in.

Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum

The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum is located in Springfield, Illinois and is dedicated to President Abraham Lincoln. The museum houses a number of artifacts, documents, and exhibits related to Lincoln’s life and legacy. Visitors can explore the museum and learn about Lincoln’s life and his presidency. There are also a number of interpretive programs and tours available for visitors to take part in.

Pullman National Monument

The Pullman National Monument is located in Chicago, Illinois and is dedicated to the history of the Pullman Palace Car Company. The Pullman Palace Car Company was an early American company that manufactured train cars and was a major force in the labor movement in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Visitors to the monument can explore the ruins of the factory and learn about the history of the company and the labor movement. There are also a number of interpretive programs and tours available for visitors to take part in.

Lincoln’s Tomb

Lincoln’s Tomb is located in Springfield, Illinois and is the final resting place of President Abraham Lincoln. The tomb is a National Historic Landmark and is the final resting place for Lincoln and his family. Visitors to the tomb can explore the site and learn about Lincoln’s life and legacy. There are also a number of interpretive programs and tours available for visitors to take part in.

New Salem State Historic Site

The New Salem State Historic Site is located in New Salem, Illinois and is dedicated to the life of Abraham Lincoln. The site is a recreation of the town that Lincoln lived in as a young man and is a National Historic Landmark. Visitors to the site can explore the town and learn about Lincoln’s early life and his relationships with the people of New Salem. There are also a number of interpretive programs and tours available for visitors to take part in.

Lincoln-Douglas Debate Site

The Lincoln-Douglas Debate Site is located in Freeport, Illinois and is the site of the famous debates between Abraham Lincoln and Stephen Douglas. The debates were a major factor in Lincoln’s election to the presidency in 1860 and are considered to be one of the most important events in American history. Visitors to the site can explore the grounds and learn about the debates and their legacy. There are also a number of interpretive programs and tours available for visitors to take part in.

Jefferson National Expansion Memorial

The Jefferson National Expansion Memorial is located in St. Louis, Missouri and is dedicated to Thomas Jefferson and the westward expansion of the United States. The memorial is home to the iconic Gateway Arch and is a National Historic Landmark. Visitors to the memorial can explore the site and learn about Jefferson and the westward expansion of the country. There are also a number of interpretive programs and tours available for visitors to take part in.

Grave of the Unknown Soldier

The Grave of the Unknown Soldier is located in Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Virginia and is dedicated to the many American soldiers who died in battle without being identified. It is a National Historic Landmark and is a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made by the men and women who serve in the military. Visitors to the grave can pay their respects to these soldiers and learn about their legacy.

Summary

Illinois is home to many historical monuments that are free to visit. From the Fort de Chartres to the Lincoln Home National Historic Site, there are a number of sites to explore and learn about the history of the state and the country. Other monuments such as the Ulysses S. Grant Home, the Old State Capitol, the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, the Pullman National Monument, Lincoln’s Tomb, the New Salem State Historic Site, the Lincoln-Douglas Debate Site, the Jefferson National Expansion Memorial, and the Grave of the Unknown Soldier are all free to visit and provide visitors with a unique insight into the history of the state and the country.

No matter where you visit in Illinois, there is sure to be a free historical monument that you can explore. Taking the time to visit these monuments can help you to gain a better understanding of the history and culture of Illinois, and the nation as a whole.