Expanding the boundary of the Lincoln Home site is at the heart of legislation reintroduced Wednesday by U.S. Senators Dick Durbin and Tammy Duckworth. The Lincoln Home National Historic Site Boundary Modification Act looks to expand the boundary of the Lincoln Home National Historic site to include a replica 1844 Lincoln cottage and the Elijah Iles home. The bill also aims to increase the height of the road in front of the Lincoln home at 8th and Jackson to provide greater accessibility.
The Abraham Lincoln Association is in the process of raising funds to create a replica of the Lincoln Home as it existed from 1844 to 1856 when the Lincoln family first moved in. The replica cottage will show what life was like for the Lincoln family the first 12 years in Springfield.
“Abraham Lincoln is a central figure in Springfield’s rich history. We should preserve the Lincoln Home National Historic site to ensure that future generations can learn about his presidential legacy. With this legislation, Illinoisans and tourists can appreciate our state’s history while visiting the Elijah Iles House and the replica Lincoln cottage,” said Durbin.
The Elijah Iles House was built in 1837 by Iles himself and is the oldest structure in Springfield. Iles was one of the founders of the city of Springfield and a friend and supporter of Lincoln. He also played a role in helping Lincoln secure the state capital’s move from Vandalia to Springfield.
In 1977, the Elijah Iles House was listed on the National Register of Historic Places for its architectural and historic significance. The Greek Revival cottage was restored in 2005 and is open to the public. The home contains an extensive collection of pre-Civil War furniture and the Farrell and Ann Gay Museum of Springfield History.