New Salem Continues ‘Voices of the Village’ Series

Lincoln’s New Salem State Historic Site will continue its “Voices of the Village” program this fall with an event focused on the history of the site itself. The program takes place Sunday, September 7 at 1 p.m. in the visitors’ center auditorium.

“Voices of the Village” is a bi-monthly series of interactive lectures that highlight life in New Salem during Abraham Lincoln’s time and explore the site’s enduring legacy. Each hour-long program includes historical artifacts, engaging presentations, and light refreshments. Doors open at 12:30 p.m., with a musical prelude beginning at 12:45 p.m.

The upcoming program will explore the history of Lincoln’s New Salem State Historic Site—from its role during Lincoln’s formative years to its reconstruction and designation as one of the Midwest’s oldest historic sites.

Earlier this year, attendees learned about the lives of Pioneer Mothers of New Salem in May and the longstanding relationship between Illinois College and New Salem in July, including reflections from student interns who have helped keep the site’s history alive for modern visitors.

The final installment of the 2025 series will be held on Sunday, November 2, offering a festive look at “Holidays in the 1830s” and how Americans celebrated seasonal traditions nearly two centuries ago.

Lincoln’s New Salem State Historic Site preserves the reconstructed 1830s village where a young Abraham Lincoln lived for six years, working as a store clerk, postmaster, and rail-splitter before entering politics. Originally settled in 1829, New Salem thrived for a brief period before declining in the mid-1840s as the nearby town of Petersburg grew.

The site was reconstructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s, based on historical records, archaeological research, and oral histories. Today, it stands as one of Illinois’ most visited historic attractions, offering visitors a glimpse into frontier life through log buildings, costumed interpreters, and educational programs that celebrate the people and stories that shaped Lincoln’s early years.

For more information and updates, visit Lincoln’s New Salem on Facebook.