15588 History Lane (Cross Street: Route 97)
Petersburg, IL 62675
217-632-4000
www.LincolnsNewSalem.com
The village of New Salem was home to Abraham Lincoln from 1831 to 1837, a transformative period in which he successively tried his hand as a store clerk, soldier, store owner, postmaster, county surveyor and, finally, member of the Illinois General Assembly and lawyer. Interest in reconstructing this historic village dates back to 1906, with many of the log cabins, set on their original foundations, constructed in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps. The only original building is the Onstot Cooper Shop, ironically one of the few that is ramped. Others with wheelchair access include the Second Berry-Lincoln Store, Rutledge Tavern and Miller Blacksmith Shop. During warmer months, historical interpreters in period clothing talk about life in New Salem and demonstrate traditional skills, from making a wooden scoop to baking a pie in a fireplace.
At the modern Visitor Center one can pick up a map for the self-guided tour, view an orientation video, visit the excellent museum and borrow a wheelchair or Braille guide. Accessible restrooms are available here and at the opposite end of the village next to the Museum Store. Other facilities include a small deli, souvenir shop, outdoor theatre, picnic area and campground. In addition, an accessible picnic pavilion and playground are located along the Sangamon River. New Salem is approximately 20 miles northwest of Springfield near the town of Petersburg.