If you take a Springfield tour, you’re certain to hear the city referred to as the “Land of Lincoln” at least once. The nickname is a reference to Springfield’s most famous resident: Abraham Lincoln, America’s 16th president and (arguably) the greatest leader in the nation’s history. Although Lincoln wouldn’t arrive in Springfield until his late 20s, many of the most significant events of his life took place there, including the beginnings of his political career.
Abraham Lincoln moved to Springfield in 1837, shortly after passing the Illinois bar exam. Despite possessing no formal education, he secured a legal position under a Springfield lawyer named John T. Stuart and quickly gained a reputation as a formidable litigator. Shortly afterward, he began a romantic relationship with Mary Todd, Stuart’s cousin, and they were married in 1842.
As his legal career was taking off, Lincoln also served in the Illinois state legislature. After outspoken abolitionist Elijah Parish Lovejoy was murdered by a pro-slavery mob in 1838, a 28-year-old Lincoln delivered his first major speech in Springfield, offering a prescient warning about the dangers of political violence. The speech helped to establish his reputation as a spirited orator and began his association with the abolitionist movement.
In 1846, Abraham Lincoln was elected to the US House of Representatives but continued to keep his home in Springfield. He made waves by taking a strong stance against the Mexican-American War, which he decried as blatant imperialism. These beliefs made him nationally unpopular and he only served one term, returning to Springfield to continue his legal career.
Lincoln found great success in his legal practice, earning the nickname “Honest Abe” for his strength of character. He continued to speak out against slavery throughout the 1850s, making a name for himself in national politics. His time in Springfield ended in 1861 after he was elected to the White House.
To make the most of your next trip to Illinois, check out our Springfield Self-Guided Walking Tour, or you can sign up for Action+ and gain access to over 100 tours for a single yearly price.
