Once considered one of the most active train stations in Illinois, Union Station opened in 1898 at a grand expense of $75,000. In the spring of 1971 the last passenger boarded a train and since that time the railway has not activity used the station.
In 1985 there was talk about destroying Union Station but after a 4.5 million dollar rehabilitation it was saved. Thankfully, most of the original brick was able to be saved as well as much of the framework and doors.
I will be honest, I always assumed this station was older than it truly is. In fact I thought this was the station that Lincoln left from on his way to Washington, DC and also the station he was brought home to rest. The day we visited was very quiet, but we were able to walk about and admire all the wood work. Union Station is a stop worth adding to your list, it will not take much of your time but will impress you with it's history.
Located at 500 E Mason Union Station is opened daily from 9am til 5pm. If you enter with a group of 15 or more you must obtain a park permit. You can also book the space for groups events involving no more than 150 guests.
For information on this and other attractions in the Springfield area you can visit the Visitors Bureau and request a free copy of the 2012 guide as well as learn about the History Comes Alive program which begins in early June.
Thank you to the Springfield Visitors Center for working with us on these features, opinions are honest.
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