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Shedd Aquarium

Lincoln & Civil War Legacy Trail

Citywide, Alton, IL 62002

Historic Sites

Walk in the footsteps of Abraham and Mary Todd Lincoln, and Civil War soldiers from both North and South.

Experience the life of young Lincoln as a lawyer, duelist and orator. It was here that the final Lincoln-Douglas Debate took place, with the issue of slavery on the minds of spectators. It was here that Confederate soldiers were held captive, died and were buried. It was here that Alton resident and U.S. Senator Lyman Trumbull authored the 13th Amendment, putting an end to slavery in the United States. Experience the 11 historic sites interpreted along the Lincoln & Civil War Legacy Trail.

What's happening nearby...

Alton Midwest Nationals F1 Powerboat Racing

Alton Riverfront Park •  Jul 17 – Jul 19 @ 2PM

Alton, get ready! The F1 Powerboat Championship is making waves once again as the 3rd Annual Alton Midwest Nationals returns to Riverfront Park July 17-19!

Read more about Alton Midwest Nationals F1 Powerboat Racing

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Alton's National Cemetery

Alton

Fought on American soil, the Civil War was the deadliest war in American history.

Read more about Alton's National Cemetery

Confederate Prison Site

Alton

Visit first Illinois State Penitentiary and learn about the ghastly history of the overcrowded, often disease-infested prison. Today, it is a monument dedicated to those who…

Read more about Confederate Prison Site

Lincoln-Douglas Square

Alton

Stand the same ground once stood as Abraham Lincoln and Stephan A. Douglas near the Alton riverfront.

Read more about Lincoln-Douglas Square

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