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This wasn't originally in our plans for our trip to Springfield. We met with some friends who were visiting their family outside of town. After lunch, they took us to this site. This is where Lincoln got his start as a junior surveyor. The gentleman who took us was also an expert and a part-time tour guide, so he gave us a brief tour. We were rushed since this was our third day, and we had to drive back home. (It was a long drive.) We spent about 45 minutes at New Salem.
Some of the homes and shops are original. Others were built in the same style as the rest of the town. We saw homes, farms, an ox-drawn mill, and other things. We only made it through about 1/3 of the site before we had to go. So, we only saw some of what we wanted, but we got a very good flavor of life in this town about 160 years ago.
It was a fascinating stop, and we're very happy we did this. The last building we saw was the mill. There is a great picture of the part where the Oxen powered the mill. Our guide was around when they showed the mill working the last time. He said it was so loud, and the pressure exerted by the Oxen was so great you could hear the thumping of their footsteps far away.
We stopped short of seeing one of two houses that were Lincoln's shops. I'm disappointed we didn't see either of them. There was one right across the road from the mill. We didn't realize it until we were leaving, and I took another look at the map.
If you visit Springfield, leave time to visit New Salem.
What an awesome experience, we absolutely loved our time here!! We happened to be visiting during the annual bluegrass music event which was such an added bonus. The kids loved seeing everyone dressed up in period outfits and giving demonstrations. We were able to talk to the blacksmith, the teachers in the one room school house and even get even a live demonstration on how they dyed yarn back then. Very cool!! The entry was FREE, but they do ask for a recommended donation.
The only downside we could see was that the gift shop and restaurant were now closed due to lack of or no funding. Seems the state of Illinois could be a greater help here. Such an amazing part of Illinois history, such a shame the State doesn't put more effort behind it.
Regardless, we had a great time and highly recommend it to anyone wanting to learn more about Lincoln, his history in Illinois and how they lived back then.
A quiet walk through history while being educated. Visually appealing and at the same time showing son how much easier today is compared to the past. Friendly staff and loved the history and walk through time. Take time to check it out. You can take your time or zip through however a nice time if you appreciate the history and story of Lincoln and those who were part of the town during that time. May be free however please donate. Recommend 10 dollars for family. Please donate as well worth it and less expensive and worth it.
We were in Illinois for a family reunion and driving past New Salem. We saw the sign and I told my husband that New Salem was one of my favorite places on the planet. He pulled in! He told me there was no way he could drive by after I said that! We were there for 47 minutes lol It was Sunday and nothing was open, there were no demonstrations or dressed up folks but it was prob’ly the most peaceful, quiet, perfect visit of my life. Love New Salem. The park is accessible and yet feels like it’s in the middle of nowhere. It’s surprising there is not a restroom open at all times at the visitor center/entry area. The only downside of a wonderful visit.
Our group came into the visitors center from the parking lot, and we asked about the tours. First, we watched the 17 min movie in the theater, then went outside to walk in and through the different buildings. They had actors dressed up that you could ask questions to about Abe Lincolns stay there. After that, we took a stroll back inside the visitors center to walk through the museum of Abe Lincolns time spent in New Salem.
You can do all of the activities for free. However, there is a suggested $4/ person donation. The parking is free. There is room for RV's to park in the parking lot. This self guided tour takes about 2-4 hours depending on how much you want to soak in.
Make sure to dress appropriately for the weather as you are walking outdoors mostly. I did see people with dogs and strollers. There is an air-conditioned visitors center with a small museum inside. They have bathrooms in the visitors center and about halfway through the cabins.
I would suggest bringing your own water and snacks.. Although there is a water fountain in the visitors center. They do have picnic tables and pavilions to eat at outdoors.
