Illinois State Fairgrounds
Jct. of Sangamon Ave. and Peoria Rd., Springfield, IL Local significance of the district: Agriculture; Entertainment/recreation
Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1990.
About National Register Listings
The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.
The first McDonald's restaurant was opened in Des Plaines, Illinois in 1955. The restaurant was designed to be a drive-in, but it quickly became popular with families and eventually evolved into the fast-food chain we know today.
About Sangamon County
Sangamon County Timeline
Sangamon County, located in central Illinois, has a rich history that dates back to the Native American settlements of the Kickapoo and Illinois tribes. In the early 1800s, European settlers started arriving, and the area became known for its fertile prairies that were ideal for farming. The county was officially established on January 30, 1821, and was named after the Sangamon River that runs through it.
One of the county's most significant historical moments took place in the 1830s when a young lawyer named Abraham Lincoln settled in Springfield, the county seat of Sangamon. Lincoln would go on to become one of the most influential figures in American history, practicing law and serving in the Illinois State Legislature before becoming the 16th President of the United States.
During the mid-19th century, Sangamon County played a pivotal role in the abolitionist movement and the Underground Railroad. Prominent activists like Sojourner Truth and Frederick Douglass made appearances in Springfield, contributing to the county's reputation as a hub of anti-slavery sentiment.
In the 20th century, Sangamon County experienced rapid industrialization. The automotive industry became a major employer, with several automobile manufacturing plants operating in the area. Additionally, the county became an important center for coal mining, attracting workers from surrounding regions.
Today, Sangamon County continues to thrive as a vibrant community with a diverse economy and a strong focus on education and culture. The county remains closely tied to its historical roots, with many landmarks and historical sites dedicated to preserving the memory and legacy of Abraham Lincoln, making it a popular destination for history enthusiasts and tourists.
One of the county's most significant historical moments took place in the 1830s when a young lawyer named Abraham Lincoln settled in Springfield, the county seat of Sangamon. Lincoln would go on to become one of the most influential figures in American history, practicing law and serving in the Illinois State Legislature before becoming the 16th President of the United States.
During the mid-19th century, Sangamon County played a pivotal role in the abolitionist movement and the Underground Railroad. Prominent activists like Sojourner Truth and Frederick Douglass made appearances in Springfield, contributing to the county's reputation as a hub of anti-slavery sentiment.
In the 20th century, Sangamon County experienced rapid industrialization. The automotive industry became a major employer, with several automobile manufacturing plants operating in the area. Additionally, the county became an important center for coal mining, attracting workers from surrounding regions.
Today, Sangamon County continues to thrive as a vibrant community with a diverse economy and a strong focus on education and culture. The county remains closely tied to its historical roots, with many landmarks and historical sites dedicated to preserving the memory and legacy of Abraham Lincoln, making it a popular destination for history enthusiasts and tourists.
Sangamon County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Sangamon County, Illinois.
- 1818 - Sangamon County is officially formed on January 30 as part of the Illinois Territory.
- 1821 - The town of Springfield is designated as the county seat.
- 1832 - Abraham Lincoln, future 16th President of the United States, arrives in New Salem, located in Sangamon County.
- 1837 - The State Capitol is moved from Vandalia to Springfield, solidifying the city's role as a political center.
- 1842 - The first Sangamon County Courthouse is completed in Springfield.
- 1856 - The Illinois State Journal, a prominent newspaper, is established in Springfield.
- 1908 - The Sangamon County Building, now known as the Old State Capitol, becomes a historical landmark.
- 1909 - Construction of the current Sangamon County Courthouse is completed.
- 1930 - The Sangamon County Historical Society is formed to preserve and promote the county's history.
- 1962 - The Sangamon County Historical Society opens the Edwards Place Historic Site, a historic house museum in Springfield.
- 1982 - The first Lincoln's Festival on Route 66 is held in Springfield, celebrating Abraham Lincoln's ties to the county.
- 2004 - The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum opens in Springfield, attracting visitors from around the world.