Experience Local Legends
Attention history buffs — a fantastic journey through the history of Central Illinois awaits! Meet local legends, follow the steps of one of America’s most influential figures, and celebrate those who risked their lives in the belief of equality for all people. After all, experiencing history firsthand is way better than just reading about it.
Please note: Some locations may be closed seasonally but may still be visited by special appointment. For availability or to schedule a visit, contact the CVB.
David Strawn Art Gallery
You’ve never seen an art gallery quite like this. Housed in a breathtaking Second Empire mansion, the David Strawn Art Gallery features a collection of rotating exhibits featuring works by local artists alongside permanent exhibits like the Miriam Cowgur Allen doll collection and early Mississippi Native American pottery. Wander through each nook and cranny of this preserved manor, including original owner Phebe Strawn’s bedroom on the third floor.
Governor Duncan Mansion
As the only executive mansion in the state outside Springfield, the Governor Duncan Mansion is a one-of-a-kind attraction located in Jacksonville’s State Street Historic District. This 17-room manor was the frontier home of Governor Joseph Duncan, who served in office from 1834-1838 and was a contemporary of a young lawyer and state representative named Abraham Lincoln. Today, the mansion is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is open to tours Wednesdays and Saturdays from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
Jacksonville African American History Museum
Housed in the historic Asa Talcott House — one of nine Underground Railroad sites in Jacksonville — the Jacksonville African American History Museum highlights the remarkable contributions of Black Americans throughout the country’s history. National Civil Rights figures are featured throughout alongside Jacksonville icons like boxer Ken Norton — who handed Muhammad Ali one of his five career losses — and Dr. Alonzo Kinniebrew, the first Black American to own and operate his own hospital and one-time personal physician to Booker T. Washington.
Jacksonville Area Museum
One of the most recent additions to the city’s list of historical attractions, the Jacksonville Area Museum, located in the historic post office building, showcases a wide range of exhibits detailing the fascinating history of Jacksonville. Explore the MacMurray College archive collection, marvel at the history of industry and commerce in Jacksonville, and learn more about the Great Emancipator’s connection to the city.
Looking for Lincoln
Speaking of Lincoln, many of the sites Lincoln visited in Jacksonville can still be visited to this day. The Looking for Lincoln tour features a collection of wayside exhibits highlighting locations connected to Lincoln, including the site where he delivered a two-and-a-half-hour anti-slavery speech during his 1858 Senate campaign.
Check out a complete list of Looking for Lincoln sites in Jacksonville!
Woodlawn Farm
The legacy of slavery leaves a stain on America’s history, but even in one of the country’s most regrettable chapters, heroes rose to the occasion to aid those seeking freedom. Located just east of town, Woodlawn Farm was established in 1824 by Michael Huffaker, who along with his wife, Jane, provided refuge for formerly enslaved people traveling north along the Underground Railroad. Immerse yourself in the preserved history of this historical treasure and explore how the Huffakers lived in the 1800s — and how they helped many others on the path to liberty.