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Historic Communities
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| Vandalia |
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Vandalia is the place where Lincoln officially started his political career when he was elected the state legislator from New Salem in 1834. Vandalia was the state capitol from 1820 to 1839 when it was moved to Springfield. The vote to make Springfield the capital was a controversial one and Lincoln played an important part in that effort. The Vandalia Statehouse is an elegant structure in the federal style, which was built by city residents in a failed attempt to keep the capital in Vandalia. All three branches of state government were contained in this building for the first time in the state’s history. Across from this imposing building is a small pocket park where visitors can take a photo of Lincoln sitting with the capitol in the background.
Vandalia is located at the junction of I-70, US-51 and IL-85. the City is only 67 miles from St. Louis and 80 miles from Springfield. Vandalia was the western terminus of the old National Road and the spot is marked by the Madonna of the Trails, an impressive 18 foot statue that honors the pioneer women who once traveled the National Road to open the West. Across the street is the Fayettte County Museum, which houses memorabilia of the Lincoln-era and tells the story of the people of Fayette County. A short distance away is the Old State Cemetery established by congress in 1823. Many of the early legislators are buried here. Bronze markers give biographical information on prominent citizens in the early history of the state.
For information:
Vandalia Chamber of Commerce
618-283-2728
http://www.vandaliaillinois.com
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