Residents and visitors are invited to step back into one of the most fascinating days in Belleville’s political and civic history during “The Day Lincoln Came to Town: October 18, 1856,” a guided walking tour exploring Abraham Lincoln’s visit to Belleville and his relationship with German-American leader Gustav Koerner.
The tour will take place on Saturday, June 20, 2026, with departures at 10:00 a.m., 11:00 a.m., and 12:00 noon. Participation is free, but ticketed reservations are required, as space is limited.
Beginning at the historic Gustav Koerner House, 200 East Mascoutah Avenue in Belleville, participants will walk approximately one mile through downtown Belleville, ending at the St. Clair County Historical Society Victorian Home Museum.
The guided experience will examine the events of October 18, 1856, when Abraham Lincoln came to Belleville during the heated political climate leading up to the presidential election. Visitors will explore the buildings, streets, and public gathering places Lincoln would have seen while tracing the processions, speeches, and political activity that marked the day.
Stops along the route will highlight:
The life of Gustav Koerner and his friendship, political alliance, and professional relationship with Abraham Lincoln
Belleville’s influential German-American community in the 1830s–1850s and its role in regional politics
Historic structures and downtown locations that existed during Lincoln’s visit
The route of the political procession and speeches given at the City Market and Old Courthouse
Gustav Koerner’s personal account of learning of Lincoln’s assassination in April 1865 and his role as the only pallbearer from outside Springfield at Lincoln’s funeral
Stories tied to local landmarks, including Dr. Scheel’s House and the enduring legends connected to Lincoln’s visit
The tour combines local history, architecture, political storytelling, and first-hand historical accounts drawn from period newspapers and documented sources.
Participants are encouraged to wear comfortable walking shoes and be mindful of uneven sidewalks and surfaces. The route covers approximately one mile. Handicap accessibility is available at the rear entrance of the St. Clair County Historical Society museum.
The event is sponsored in collaboration with the Gustav Koerner House Restoration, Belleville Historical Society, St. Clair County Historical Society, and the Abend and Garfield Streets Neighborhood.
For reservations or more information, contact Keith A. Owens at (618) 799-1088.
Event Details
What: “The Day Lincoln Came to Town: October 18, 1856” Guided Walking Tour
When: Saturday, June 20, 2026 — 10:00 a.m., 11:00 a.m., and 12:00 noon
Where: Begins at Gustav Koerner House, 200 E. Mascoutah Ave., Belleville, Illinois
Cost: Free Admission and Parking
Reservations: Ticketed reservation required; space is limited
Length: Approximately one mile walking tour through downtown Belleville
Contact: Keith A. Owens — (618) 799-1088
https://buytickets.at/stclaircountyhistoricalsociety/2165064