Lincoln College was established in 1865 to fill the need for an institution of higher learning in central Illinois. Commissioners investigated several sites, and in December, 1864, selected Lincoln, Illinois. On February 6, 1865, a charter for the new university was secured from the Illinois General Assembly. Ground was broken for University Hall, the first college building, just six days later on Abraham Lincoln's birthday.

By September, 1866, the foundation had been completed and the cornerstone was laid. In November, 1866, instruction for men and women began. The first commencement in 1868 honored three graduates. Thus Lincoln College took its place among the pioneer educational institutions of Midwest America.

Lincoln, Illinois is an area rich in American and Illinois history. This city is also the county seat of Logan County and was the first city named for Abraham Lincoln, an event which occurred in 1853 before he became a nationally-known figure.

History

• First land plot sold on August 27, 1853.
• Lincoln, Illinois is located on the Chicago and Alton Railroad between Bloomington and Springfield.
• Abraham Lincoln christened the new town, named in his honor, with juice from a watermelon!

Historic Sites

Stephen A. Douglas Site - Corner of Logan Street and Fourth Street
Douglas spoke here on September 4, 1858 during his famous campaign against Abraham Lincoln for the Senate seat. Lincoln was in attendance but did not speak.

Lincoln College Museum - McKinstry Library, 300 Keokuk Street at Lincoln College
The Lincoln College Museum displays over 2,000 Lincoln volumes, manuscripts, art and other items. The Museum of Presidents honors all United States Presidents. There is also a three-foot section of Tower One of the World Trade Center.

The Christening Scene - Broadway Street and Chicago Street
Abraham Lincoln, a lawyer from Springfield, christened the town of Lincoln with juice from a watermelon in 1853.

Postville Courthouse - 914 Fifth Street
This landmark was built in 1841 and was Logan County's first courthouse. The original structure was purchased by Henry Ford and moved to Dearborn, Michigan.

Logan County Courthouse
Located in downtown Lincoln's Historic District, the current courthouse was built in 1905. This building is the third at the site since 1853. It houses county offices and records. A statue of Abraham Lincoln and a monument honoring Civil War veterans are located nearby.

Heritage In Flight Museum
Logan County Airport located at the northeast corner of Lincoln houses memorabilia from all military conflicts since World War II. The building was part of Camp Ellis, an Army training facility and POW camp during World War II located in Fulton County, Illinois.

More Information About Lincoln, Illinois

Abraham Lincoln Tourism Bureau of Logan County
Lincoln-Logan County Chamber of Commerce

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