Looking for Lincoln Wayside Exhibit: "Wide Awakes" March in Atlanta

Atlanta, Illinois

IllinoisRoadside Attraction

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Looking for Lincoln Wayside Exhibits share pieces of Abraham Lincoln’s life and legacy in Illinois. The exhibits tell two stories at once: a slice of Lincoln’s journey and a unique local tale that shaped the people and places he encountered along the way. From lesser-known Lincoln moments to interactions with fascinating individuals, every wayside exhibit has its own bit of lore. There are more than 260 of these stops across the Abraham Lincoln National Heritage Area, many of which are on Route 66, where you’ll uncover the details that make Lincoln’s story feel close and personal.

Find the “Wide Awakes” March in Atlanta Looking for Lincoln Wayside Exhibit in Atlanta, Illinois. This signpost describes a spirited group of young men, the “Wide Awakes,” who formed in Atlanta in 1860 to support Abraham Lincoln’s presidential campaign. Led by Captain H.N. Estabrook, they rallied for Lincoln with torch-lit marches, patriotic songs, and bold banners. Their banners, including “The Nation’s Choice” and a Lincoln/Hamlin piece adorned with an ax and wedge, symbolized Lincoln’s “railsplitter” roots. Both banners are now displayed at the Lincoln College Museum in Lincoln, Illinois.

The kiosk was installed in 2008 by Looking for Lincoln Heritage Coalition and City of Atlanta.

 

 

 

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Looking for Lincoln Wayside Exhibit: "Wide Awakes" March in Atlanta, Illinois

Looking for Lincoln Wayside Exhibit: "Wide Awakes" March in Atlanta

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Address:

104 SW Arch St, Atlanta, IL 61723

Hours:

Visible 24/7

Cost:

Free

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Photos of the “Wide Awakes” March in Atlanta Looking for Lincoln Wayside Exhibit in Atlanta, Illinois

Looking for Lincoln Wayside Exhibit: "Wide Awakes" March in Atlanta, Illinois
Looking for Lincoln Wayside Exhibit: "Wide Awakes" March in Atlanta, Illinois

Know Before You Go

To make the most of your visit to the ​​”Wide Awakes” March in Atlanta Looking for Lincoln Wayside Exhibit in Atlanta, Illinois, here are some things to know before you go.

What is the “Wide Awakes” March in Atlanta exhibit?

The “Wide Awakes” March in Atlanta is an official Looking for Lincoln wayside exhibit that tells the story of Atlanta’s role in Abraham Lincoln’s 1860 presidential campaign. The interpretive sign highlights one of the earliest Wide Awake chapters organized in Illinois and explores how local residents rallied behind Lincoln before he became president. It is one of the many Looking for Lincoln Wayside Exhibits on Route 66 and across Illinois.

Where is the exhibit located?

The exhibit is located near the corner of SW Arch Street and County Highway 25 in downtown Atlanta, Illinois, at Xenia Park, across from the Paul Bunyon Hot Dog Muffler Man.

What is the Looking for Lincoln program?

Looking for Lincoln is a heritage tourism initiative within the Abraham Lincoln National Heritage Area. More than 260 wayside exhibits throughout Illinois tell stories about Lincoln’s life, travels, and connections to local communities. Each marker combines a Lincoln story with local history.

Where can you park in Atlanta?

Parking is available on the street or in a community lot.

Where to Stay Near the ​​”Wide Awakes” March in Atlanta Looking for Lincoln Wayside Exhibit

Complete your travel itinerary and get a good night’s rest with a stay at one of these nearby hotels on Illinois Route 66.

Travelodge by Wyndham Route 66 Atlanta

The Travelodge by Wyndham Route 66 Atlanta (formerly The Trail Inn) is the most convenient motel to downtown Atlanta. The location allows you to stay a while in town to take in all the best attractions in the area. Plus, with a gas station right across the street, it’s easy to fuel up your car or stock up on snacks.

Vrooman Mansion Bed and Breakfast

Vrooman Mansion Bed and Breakfast is located off Route 66 in the heart of Bloomington/Normal, Illinois. The Vrooman Mansion is a historical 1869 estate, with seven suites to choose from, all with private baths and access to beautiful common areas like the library, parlor, sitting rooms, and manicured grounds.

State House Inn

State House Inn, a landmark hotel in Springfield, Illinois, features a business center, gym, ironing service, and complimentary breakfast with a convenient location directly across the street from the Illinois State Capitol. Book a stay in one of the two themed Presidential Suites: the Abraham Lincoln and Mary Todd.

Attractions Near the “Wide Awakes” March in Atlanta Looking for Lincoln Wayside Exhibit on Route 66

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Planning your Route 66 road trip? Our Route 66 Road Trip Planning Toolkit is your go-to resource for crafting the perfect itinerary! With over 1,300 stops, including quirky roadside attractions, historic sites, and classic diners, our toolkit helps you prioritize what matters most to you. It’s the ultimate guide to making your road trip truly unique and memorable. Ready to hit the road? Start planning your adventure now! #Route66 #Route66RoadTrip #Route66TravelPlanning

Is road trip planning driving you crazy?

Let the Route 66 Road Trip Planning Toolkit be your guide.

Are you ready to hit the Mother Road but feeling overwhelmed with planning? The Route 66 Road Trip Planning Toolkit is your one-stop solution! Spanning 2,448 miles of pure Americana, Route 66 is packed with quirky attractions, historic sites, and unforgettable experiences—so why settle for a generic, outdated itinerary? Our toolkit offers a customizable travel spreadsheet with over 1,300 stops, a detailed eBook, and a step-by-step video guide to help you craft your dream Route 66 road trip. Don’t miss out—start planning your perfect Route 66 adventure today!

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