2015 marks 150 years since the death of America's 16th president, Abraham Lincoln. This spring, Springfield Illinois, which is both the town Lincoln called home before he left for Washington, D.C. and his final resting place, will host many unique events honouring Lincoln. Most events are free and open to the public and provide a unique opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in American history.

 On 1- 3 May 2015, the Lincoln Funeral Coalition will pay tribute to Lincoln with a re-creation of the funeral events, concluding with the funeral procession and ceremony in Oak Ridge Cemetery at Springfield. Re-enactors, dignitaries and Lincoln scholars have been invited to participate in re-enactments of the funeral events from May 1865. 

The public is invited to watch the processions and take part in many of the weekend's free events. On 2 May, a replica of the Lincoln Funeral car will travel from Washington D.C. to Springfield. The first procession begins at the Amtrak station in downtown Springfield where re-enactors will escort the replica coffin and horse-drawn hearse to the Old State Capitol. An Evening with the Lincoln Funeral Car will be held at the Crowne Plaza; includes a dinner and an opportunity for guests to tour the funeral car.

After an all-night vigil, the procession makes its way to Oak Ridge Cemetery on 3 May where a special funeral ceremony and 36 cannon salute will conclude the commemoration. Visit the 2015 Lincoln Funeral Coalition page for more information.

Several area hotels are offering special rates during the commemoration events. A list of hotels can be found on the 2015 Lincoln Funeral Coalition Contact page.

This is truly once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience American history. Additional information is available at www.visitspringfieldillinois.com

Ongoing Special Exhibits & Events on Lincoln:

Undying Words: Lincoln Special Exhibit
Now - February 29th, 2016 – Daily 9 am – 5 pm
This exhibit focuses on Lincoln's best-known speeches while teaching visitors about Lincoln's transformation, ultimately putting the United States on track to become the first bi-racial democracy in world history. This exhibit is a collaboration with the Chicago History Museum and will be an inspiring and reflective commemoration of Lincoln's death. Roughly ninety to one hundred original objects, including the Lincoln family carriage and the death bed of Abraham Lincoln, will be on display. Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum www.TenYearsLincoln.com

One Amazing Week Special Exhibit
Now - December 31st 2015 Wed. – Sat. 9 am - 5 pm
In a span of one week back in 1865, Illinois lawmakers ratified the constitutional amendment ending slavery and abolished the state's racist “black laws.” The Old State Capitol State Historic Site will celebrate the 150th anniversary of those accomplishments with an exhibit throughout 2015. Developed with Secretary of State Jesse White's office, the display explains the constitutional amendment and the change in Illinois laws. Old State Capitol www.IllinoisHistory.gov

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About Springfield, IL
Springfield, the iconic heart of America, the capital of Illinois and the hometown of Abraham Lincoln, is filled with treasures, authentic experiences and nostalgia for days gone by. Explore everything from Abraham Lincoln's house and law offices to his must-see presidential museum. Experience a taste of Americana with a cruise along historic Route 66 with its roadside diners and drive-in theatres in Springfield.

Located only 3 ½ hours from Chicago by car and available via Amtrak.

Further information and images are available by contacting:
Baha Green
Cellet Marketing & Public Relations
T: 08456 020 574
E: baha@cellet.co.uk