Vandalia

Vandalia: Lincoln History, Downtown Shopping, Eateries Attract Visitors

Madonna of the Trail Statue Standing in the foyer of the Old State Capitol, one might expect a young Abraham Lincoln to come bounding down the winding staircase after a House of Representatives session. The oldest remaining state capitol building in Illinois is located at the intersection of the National Road (U.S. 40) and U.S. Route 51 in the city of Vandalia. The restored building welcomes visitors who want to experience the early years of Lincoln’s career (1834-1839).

Ten Lincoln Wayside Exhibits have been erected. Eight are around the capitol at Rogier Park and at the Old State Cemetery. These storyboards feature little known facts from President Lincoln’s life and times in Vandalia. Visitors may not know that Lincoln proposed to a woman named Mary Owens before he met Mary Todd, or that Lincoln and Stephen Douglas first met here. Also, Lincoln’s first official stand against slavery was in Vandalia. The Vandalia Statehouse is open May through Labor Day, Tuesday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. post Labor Day.

Located across the street from the Capitol is Lincoln Park, featuring a life-size bronze statue of Abraham Lincoln designed by world-renowned Lincoln sculptor John McClarey.

Directly north of the old Capitol is the Fayette County Museum, located in the historic Presbyterian Church built in 1867. The building is on the National Register of Historic Places and houses Lincoln-era memorabilia and artifacts of the people living in the county. Of special interest is an original paper press from the Capitol, and visitors can hold a hand tool traced back to Lincoln that is etched with the initials “A.L.” The museum is open Monday through Saturday, 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

One block west on 5th Street, visitors can see the only National Road Interpretive Center in Illinois. The National Road was the first and only totally federally funded road in the country. Here visitors can learn the history of travel and transportation in the early days of the country. The Center reminds visitors that Vandalia was the terminus of the National Road, which began in Baltimore, MD. The Center routinely

WHERE HISTORY LIVES & PROGRESS THRIVES

Vandalia, Illinois VISIT HISTORIC

Looking for Lincoln? You’ll nd him here, where his storied political career began and history abounds. After some adventure? You’ve only to venture toward Vandalia Lake for a host of water and outdoor sports. Whether you’re after browsing boutiques or immersing yourself in culture, you’ll nd the right thread to weave your perfect story right here in Vandalia.

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adds exhibits to its fine collection. The Interpretive Center is open Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

On the corner of the Old State Capitol Lawn, visitors can find the Madonna of the Trail Statue. It is one of 12 statues in the United States on the National Road honoring the pioneer women who walked behind the wagons to open the west. The statues were donated by the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) and dedicated in 1928 and 1929.

Vandalia isn’t just a place for history buffs, it is also a thriving community of quaint shops, new restaurants and patios and period style lights and benches, making for a relaxing downtown experience. Downtown shops include: Country Folk, Iya’s and Friends, Tiger Lily Florist & Gifts, The Turning Leaf, and many more shops and businesses.

Downtown restaurants include Baan Thai, Blind Society, The Copper Penny, El Taco Fiesta, and many more locally ownedrestaurants. Witness Distillery, located south of The Capitol, offers tours to learn how they make their many spirits right here in Vandalia. Visit the Whiskey Underground to try one of their many fantastic spirits and then head to the gift shop to purchase items to take home.

Charters Patio is directly across the street from the Vandalia Statehouse State Historic Site, and is the host of many outdoor events all year long, including live music throughout the summer months (MaySeptember).

Just south of the downtown area, visitors can walk along the former historic Illinois Central Railroad to the beautiful scenery that is the Kaskaskia River. Visitors can enter the trail behind the Fayette County Health Department at 416 W. Edwards Street. They can enjoy the “Did You Know” signs that are spread throughout the trail to learn the history of the railroad, and about Abraham Lincoln’s involvement with the railroad in Vandalia.

Downtown Vandalia at Christmastime

While staying in Vandalia, visit The Dutch Prairie Mennonite Shops and Settlement Area, which are southeast of the city and home to many cottage industries. Handcrafted items are produced at more than 20 businesses on the prairie, including fruits, flowers, vegetables, handmade cabinets, furniture and rugs. A variety of repair shops, harness and tack and other services can also be found, along with a country store that serves homemade lunches Monday through Saturday, with its Saturday special being the amazing soft pretzels.

Lake Vandalia, northwest of the city on Illinois Route 185, is a 660-acre lake with swimming, camping, boating/fishing facilities, and nature walks that the entire family can enjoy. The beach has a bathhouse and picnic area. Many fishing tournaments are conducted each year, as well as the Lions Club Fireworks on the Saturday nearest to the 4th of July. Camping at the lake is available May through mid-October.

National Road Interpretive Center

Ramsey Lake State Park, 12 miles north of the city, has more than 1,900 acres for hunting, fishing, hiking, horseback riding, snowmobiling, camping, picnicking and more. There are shelters, cabins and trailer spaces for rent. A small concession business is located in the park.

In addition, Vandalia has multiple day spas, the Vandalia Golf and Country Club, and Indian Springs Golf Course.

The 35-foot Kaskaskia Supply fire breathing dragon can be seen at Veterans and Rock Island avenues. Purchase “Dragon Tokens” to catch the real magic, and watch the beast come alive with glowing red yes and fire blowing from its snout 16 feet overhead. This unique attraction makes for a great photo op and the kids will love it.

With so many exciting new and historical activities, it makes sense to spend the night in Vandalia. With clean, comfortable lodging accommodations and an excellent selection of shops and restaurants, visitors are certain to be well fed and rested for another day of exploring, or for the return trip home. Visitors can also enjoy more than 60 acres of parks and walking trails.

vandalia hosts a plethora of events all year including Abraham Lincoln’s Birthday in February, the Grand Levee in June, Olde Tyme Christmas in November and The Statehouse

GALA in December. For a complete calendar of events, call 618-283-2728, or visit vandaliaillinois.com.

2022 vandalia Calendar of Events Dates subject to change. Please call ahead for specific information and additional activities.

May 14, June 11, July 9, August 13 September 10: Vandalia Farmers’ Market.

June 17, 18: Grand Levee.

July 2: Lions Club Firework Display.

September 24: Wine and Ale with Abe Street Fest.

October 27: Vandalia Halloween Parade.

November 11, 12: Olde Tyme Christmas.

December 2: Statehouse GALA.

December 10: Statehouse Christmas Open House.