History Nights at the Old State Capitol
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Experience the Old State Capitol after hours with self-guided tours and engaging 30-45-minute programs that illuminate Illinois' past. 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.
Upcoming Programs Include:
October 2026 Programs:
October 31: Classic Horror Stories - Bring your favorite scary story to read in our historic site, or listen as our interpreters read selections from classic horror stories. Site is open 4:15-7:00 pm on Saturday, October 31 for those wishing to participate in this program.
November 2026 Programs (offered at 5:15 PM and 6:15 PM):
November 7 - The Veteran Reserve Corps: Learn about a special unit in the Union army during the Civil War composed of veterans who were wounded or had medical conditions preventing them from fighting at the front lines, but who still wanted to serve however they could.
November 14 - Lincoln and Thanksgiving: Learn about the special role Abraham Lincoln had in shaping the modern holiday of Thanksgiving and some of its traditions, including the famous pardoning of the turkey.
November 21 - The “other” Gettysburg Address: Many are surprised to find out that Abraham Lincoln was not the main speaker at the dedication of Gettysburg National Cemetery. Learn about Edward Everett and his 2-hour long speech delivered before Lincoln stood to give his “few appropriate remarks”.
The Old State Capitol will remain open until 7:00 PM on the evenings these programs are offered.
This program is free and open to all ages; reservations are optional.
Upcoming Programs Include:
October 2026 Programs:
October 31: Classic Horror Stories - Bring your favorite scary story to read in our historic site, or listen as our interpreters read selections from classic horror stories. Site is open 4:15-7:00 pm on Saturday, October 31 for those wishing to participate in this program.
November 2026 Programs (offered at 5:15 PM and 6:15 PM):
November 7 - The Veteran Reserve Corps: Learn about a special unit in the Union army during the Civil War composed of veterans who were wounded or had medical conditions preventing them from fighting at the front lines, but who still wanted to serve however they could.
November 14 - Lincoln and Thanksgiving: Learn about the special role Abraham Lincoln had in shaping the modern holiday of Thanksgiving and some of its traditions, including the famous pardoning of the turkey.
November 21 - The “other” Gettysburg Address: Many are surprised to find out that Abraham Lincoln was not the main speaker at the dedication of Gettysburg National Cemetery. Learn about Edward Everett and his 2-hour long speech delivered before Lincoln stood to give his “few appropriate remarks”.
The Old State Capitol will remain open until 7:00 PM on the evenings these programs are offered.
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Where is it happening?
1 Old State Capitol Plz, Springfield, IL, United States, Illinois 62701
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
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Host or PublisherState Historic Sites at Springfield, IL
