Lincoln-Herndon Law Offices, Springfield, IL
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Lincoln-Herndon Law Offices

4.6
·14 reviews·Springfield, United States

Step into Abraham Lincoln's law office, a preserved space where he practiced before becoming president. A key historical stop in Springfield.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more personal tour

CrowdLow
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Lincoln-Herndon Law Offices, Springfield, IL

Lincoln-Herndon Law Offices

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more personal tour

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Step into Abraham Lincoln's law office, a preserved space where he practiced before becoming president. A key historical stop in Springfield.

4.6
(14 reviews)

"A neat little building with a lot of history."

Vertical photo
TIP

📞 Call Ahead for Hours

Hours can be limited; confirm opening times before your visit to avoid disappointment.

🚶‍♂️ Combine with Nearby Sites

Easily pair with the Old State Capitol and Lincoln's Home for a full historical experience.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Lincoln's Law Office

Lincoln's Law Office

3rd Floor, Tinsley Block

Step back in time to where Abraham Lincoln practiced law before his presidency. A glimpse into his professional life.

Historic Tinsley Block

Historic Tinsley Block

6th and Adams Streets

The building itself, a historic brick structure from 1841, housed Lincoln's legal practice and the Illinois Supreme Court.

Proximity to State Capitol

Proximity to State Capitol

Across the street from the Old State Capitol

Located directly across from the Old State Capitol, where Lincoln argued many cases. Easy to visit together.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for Lincoln's Law Office

The Lincoln-Herndon Law Offices are a historic site, and hours can vary. It's wise to check the official website or call ahead to confirm operating hours, especially if you're planning a day trip to Springfield. Some visitors have found it closed for renovations or during off-peak times, so a quick call can save a wasted trip. Reddit

Combine with Other Lincoln Sites

This law office is a small but significant piece of Abraham Lincoln's history in Springfield. Many visitors find it best to combine a visit here with other nearby Lincoln attractions, such as his home or the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, to make the most of your trip. TikTok+1

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more personal tour
Crowd
Low
When
Spring & Fall
Why
Pleasant weather for exploring
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Abraham Lincoln’s home in Springfield, Illinois. #abrahamlincoln #lincoln #history #springfieldillinois
@freyzel_productions
57.7K likes • 810K views

📞 Call Ahead for Hours

Hours can be limited; confirm opening times before your visit to avoid disappointment. Reddit

🚶‍♂️ Combine with Nearby Sites

Easily pair with the Old State Capitol and Lincoln's Home for a full historical experience. TikTok

Visiting the home of our 16th President Abraham Lincoln in Springfield, Illinois. #abrahamlincoln #springfieldillinois #historichome #History #fyp
@freyzel_productions
2.7K likes • 118.8K views
Here is the third part of our Lincoln video including the tour of the home of President Abraham Lincoln. In this video, we will show you what we can inside the home during the guided tour. This home is in Springfield, Illinois. #abrahamlincoln #presidentialsites #History
@freyzel_productions
1.8K likes • 64.2K views

💰 Consider a Donation

Funding can be limited; donations help preserve this historic site. Reddit

🏛️ Explore the Old Capitol

The building's location across from the Old State Capitol offers a great historical context. Reddit

Kitchen. Abraham Lincoln’s home tour Springfield, Illinois. #abrahamlincoln #abelincoln #lincoln #historicplace #historicplaces #historichome #historichomes #springfieldillinois #springfieldil #springfield #abe #presidentlincoln #historic #historical #historicdistrict #historicsite #historicsites #visithere #visitthisplace #famous #oldpresident #oldpresidents #housetours #housetour #fypagee #fypag...
@slowtravelvlog
1.5K likes • 74.9K views

Tips

from all over the internet

📞 Call Ahead for Hours

Hours can be limited; confirm opening times before your visit to avoid disappointment. Reddit

🚶‍♂️ Combine with Nearby Sites

Easily pair with the Old State Capitol and Lincoln's Home for a full historical experience. TikTok

💰 Consider a Donation

Funding can be limited; donations help preserve this historic site. Reddit

🏛️ Explore the Old Capitol

The building's location across from the Old State Capitol offers a great historical context. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(14 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find the Lincoln-Herndon Law Offices a neat, historic building offering a glimpse into Abraham Lincoln's legal career. While small, its significance is appreciated, especially when combined with other Springfield landmarks. Some reviewers noted it was closed during their visit, highlighting the importance of checking hours beforehand.

"The Lincoln-Herndon Law Offices State Historic Site is a historic brick building built in 1841 in the U.S. state of Illinois. It is located at 6th and Adams Streets in Springfield, Illinois. The law office has been restored and is operated by the Illinois Historic Preservation Agency as a state historic site.

Lawyer Abraham Lincoln and his partner Stephen T. Logan moved their partnership law offices to a third-floor office in the Tinsley Block in 1843. The Illinois Supreme Court, where the partners often pleaded cases, met in the State Capitol across the street, and the U.S. District Court rented space on the Tinsley Block's second floor.
The firm of Logan & Lincoln broke up in 1844. Lincoln continued to practice law in the Tinsley Block office and accepted a younger lawyer, William H. Herndon, as his junior partner. The firm of Lincoln and Herndon practiced from the Tinsley Block office from 1844 until about 1852."

Lance Sheridan

"Springfield is so full of history about President Abraham Lincoln. We had fun visiting the Visitors Center where Lincoln’s Law Offices had been."

L Grabb

"Review Date: May 11th, 2014

A neat little building with a lot of history.

It was a day full of exploring Springfield when we stopped at a spot downtown to walk around and see things on-foot instead of behind a steering wheel. As we were walking around and seeing things up close and personal, we discovered this little place by pure luck.

I think it was Laura that pointed it out and told us we should check it out. We weren’t sure what to expect but the door was open and we were allowed in. There was the nicest older gentleman that greeted us and asked us how we were doing. He then asked if we wanted a tour and a history lesson of what the law office was. We gave him an enthusiastic ‘yes!’.

After all this time, I sadly don’t remember the specifics of everything he told us. I do remember the building being as small as it looked from the outside. I remember the interior being small yet cozy while still being a snapshot of times long past. I think I do recall the gentleman telling us that funding has left the place being only open during certain times/days, so please leave a donation if you do check it out. Every little bit helps places like this.

Since I don’t have much to tell you, I just hope this post brings attention to a neat little stop in Springfield that might be overlooked by the bigger, more tourist-y things."

Joshua Daily

What People Like

Historic atmosphere
Lincoln's legal history
Central location

What People Dislike

Limited hours
Small size

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Lincoln-Herndon Law Offices are located at 6th and Adams Streets in downtown Springfield, Illinois. They are conveniently situated across from the Old State Capitol. If you're arriving by car, there is street parking available nearby. For those using public transport, local bus routes serve the downtown area. Reddit

Yes, Springfield's downtown area is quite walkable, especially for Lincoln-related attractions. The Law Offices, Old State Capitol, and Lincoln's Home are all within a reasonable walking distance of each other, making it easy to explore on foot. Reddit

Absolutely! Many visitors come to Springfield for a day trip specifically to see the Lincoln sites. The Law Offices are a quick visit and can easily be incorporated into a larger itinerary including the Presidential Library and Museum and Lincoln's Home. Reddit

While specific bike racks might not be abundant directly at the Law Offices, downtown Springfield is generally bike-friendly. If you're cycling, you can likely find secure spots to lock your bike near the Old State Capitol or other public areas. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission to the Lincoln-Herndon Law Offices State Historic Site is typically free. However, it's always a good idea to check their official website or call ahead, as hours and access can sometimes be limited or subject to change. Reddit

Operating hours can vary seasonally and may be affected by renovations or special events. Visitors are strongly advised to check the official Illinois Historic Preservation Agency website or call the site directly for the most up-to-date information on opening hours. Reddit

Yes, guided tours are often available and highly recommended. A knowledgeable guide can provide fascinating insights into Lincoln's legal career and the history of the building. Reddit

If the offices are closed for renovations, you may not be able to enter. However, you can still appreciate the exterior of the historic building and read any surrounding informational plaques. It's best to call ahead to check the status. Reddit

Generally, there is no entrance fee for the Lincoln-Herndon Law Offices. It is operated as a state historic site. However, donations are appreciated to help with preservation efforts. Reddit

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

Inside, you'll find the restored office space as it would have been during Lincoln's time. It's a small but historically significant space that offers a tangible connection to Lincoln's legal career. Reddit

A visit to the Lincoln-Herndon Law Offices is usually quite brief, often taking around 30 minutes to an hour, depending on whether you take a guided tour and how much time you spend absorbing the atmosphere. Reddit

The building is historic and located on the third floor, which may present accessibility challenges. It's advisable to contact the site directly to inquire about specific accessibility options or limitations. Reddit

Photography policies can vary. It's best to ask your guide or check for posted signs upon arrival. Generally, non-flash photography for personal use is often permitted in historic sites. TikTok

This office was where Abraham Lincoln practiced law with his partners, Stephen T. Logan and later William H. Herndon, from 1843 to about 1852. It's a key location in understanding his life before the presidency. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The exterior of the historic brick building offers a classic architectural shot. Inside, the preserved office space provides a unique glimpse into the past, though photography rules should be checked. The proximity to the Old State Capitol also offers great photo ops. TikTok

Photography policies inside historic buildings can vary. It's recommended to ask your tour guide or look for signage. Often, non-flash photography for personal use is allowed, but it's best to confirm. TikTok

While specific restrictions should be confirmed on-site, generally, flash photography is discouraged in historic interiors to protect artifacts. Always be respectful of the space and other visitors. TikTok

Morning light can be lovely for exterior shots of the brick building. For interior photos, the lighting will depend on the available natural light and any interior lighting. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While the Lincoln-Herndon Law Offices are a small site, they can be a quick and educational stop for families interested in history. The guided tours, if available, can make the experience more engaging for children by bringing the past to life. It's a good opportunity to discuss what life was like for kids during Lincoln's time. TikTok

Pro-tip: Combine this visit with the more interactive exhibits at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum or a walk around Lincoln's Home to keep younger visitors entertained. Ensure you check the operating hours beforehand, as limited hours might not align with a family's schedule. Reddit

🏛️ History Buffs

For those passionate about American history, the Lincoln-Herndon Law Offices are a must-visit. This is where Abraham Lincoln spent a significant portion of his pre-presidency life, developing his legal acumen. The preserved office offers an intimate look into his professional world. Reddit

Don't miss: The chance to hear stories from a guide about Lincoln's cases and his partnership with Herndon. The building's location across from the Old State Capitol adds another layer of historical context, as this is where many of his significant legal battles took place. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Abraham Lincoln's Legal Career

Before becoming the 16th President of the United States, Abraham Lincoln was a prominent lawyer. He practiced law in Springfield, Illinois, for many years. The Lincoln-Herndon Law Offices represent a crucial period in his professional life, where he honed his legal skills and built his reputation.

Lincoln first partnered with Stephen T. Logan in 1841, and they moved their offices to the Tinsley Block in 1843. After Logan left the partnership, Lincoln formed a new firm with William H. Herndon in 1844, continuing to practice in the same location until he left for Washington D.C. in 1861. This office was a hub of legal activity, situated conveniently across from the Illinois Supreme Court. Reddit

Visiting the restored office offers a tangible connection to this era. You can imagine Lincoln poring over case files, meeting with clients, and preparing for arguments in the Illinois Supreme Court. It’s a powerful reminder of his journey from a small-town lawyer to a national leader. TikTok

The Historic Tinsley Block

The Lincoln-Herndon Law Offices are housed within the historic Tinsley Block, a brick building constructed in 1841. This building itself is a piece of Springfield's history, predating Lincoln's most famous political career. Its location at 6th and Adams Streets placed it at the heart of the city's legal and governmental activity.

Being situated across from the Old State Capitol was a significant advantage for Lincoln and his partners. The Illinois Supreme Court met in this building, meaning lawyers practicing there had immediate access to the state's highest court. This proximity facilitated frequent appearances and consultations, making the Tinsley Block a prime location for legal professionals. Reddit

Today, the Tinsley Block stands as a testament to Springfield's rich past. The restoration of the third-floor law office allows visitors to step back into the 19th century and experience the environment where Lincoln conducted his legal business. It’s a vital part of the historical landscape of Abraham Lincoln's Springfield. Reddit

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