Museum

Journey 1

Explore Abraham Lincoln’s early life from his boyhood in a Kentucky cabin through his 1860 campaign for President of the United States.

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Journey 2

Abraham Lincoln achieved what many men only dreamed of when he won the presidency in 1860. But the country was in crisis—the Civil War would begin just weeks after his inauguration, and Lincoln would wrestle with the human toll of battle and of slavery. Family tragedy struck as well, with the death of son Willie in 1862. Cruel personal and political attacks that greeted the Lincolns when they arrived in Washington, D.C., gave way to an outpouring of grief following his assassination on April 14, 1865. Somber scenes of mourning give way to consideration of Lincoln’s powerful hold on Americans.

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Treasures Gallery

A curated selection of objects highlighting the everyday individuals and communities who have shaped the American story – offering snapshots of service, resilience, and civic life across time.

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The Illinois Gallery - Rotating Exhibit

The Second American Revolution

Run Dates: June 5, 2026 – January 17, 2027

Examine how the Civil War and Reconstruction transformed the United States, turning a struggle to preserve the Union into a fight to redefine freedom and citizenship. Part of the nationwide commemoration of America’s 250th anniversary, this exhibit features artifacts from our collection, including a signed copy of the 13th Amendment, and explores how the promises of equality have continued to shape the American story.

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Community Case – Rotating Exhibit

Pillsbury Flour Mills Co.

Located in the Ghost Show Queue area.

Run Dates: February 18, 2026 – June 9, 2026

This exhibit highlights Springfield’s manufacturing history through the story of the Pillsbury Flour Mills plant, once a major employer and community anchor on Springfield’s north side. Featuring artifacts, photos, and personal memorabilia, the display reflects both the mill’s local impact and the broader story of manufacturing in American communities.

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West Corridor

Pillars of Democracy: Unite & Rise Tour

Run Dates: May 15-31, 2026

Join us in celebrating women’s vital role in democracy and the hard work it took to achieve it. Pillars of Democracy by artist Niki Johnson features mixed-media portraits inspired by the women’s suffrage movement and created using materials from a 2020 mural by Shepard Fairey. Blending past and present, the exhibition explores themes of liberty, justice, freedom, and civic participation through striking visual imagery. Original works are on display in the ALPLM library building, prints are displayed in the museum’s West Corridor.

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Citizen City (in development)

We are developing a unique children’s exhibit space which will be a wonderful immersive experience for our young patrons. Citizen City is a place where kids have fun while learning what it means to be a “good citizen.” Citizen City has neighborhoods, parks, city center and other dynamic spaces to get a “hands-on” experience for children and their families.

Learn more about Citizen City (in development)