Uploaded March 2024 | Updated September 2026, 1 day ago
The Illinois Central Passenger House should be etched in our vision of Mendota's beginnings when the Illinois Central finished the building in 1854 along with the freight house of the ICRR. Even though it burned down in 1885 it played a huge part in settling Mendota and laying the foundation for its busy future.
I have painted a picture of the Passenger House and in it I also added a historic scene from July 14th, 1859 when Abe Lincoln and his entourage were on official business for the railroad which was only a handful of years old.
I felt strongly compelled to paint this image and to share this video which explains his visit. If you would like to earn more about that nine day tip Lincoln was on to assess the ICRR property I have listed my resources near the end of this video.
Whether or not Lincoln stopped here was a mystery for years, but it didn't take a rocket scientist to assume that during the great debates with Stephen A. Douglas in August of 1858 they had to go right through Mendota to Freeport IL, two main stops on the ICRR. I have an entire video devoted to that week and explain his travels in the area.
Enjoy the little history lesson and come visit the Mendota Railroad Museum and walk around the grounds and stand on the same spot where Lincoln walked.
The Illinois Central Passenger House should be etched in our vision of Mendota's beginnings when the Illinois Central finished the building in 1854 along with the freight house of the ICRR. Even though it burned down in 1885 it played a huge part in settling Mendota and laying the foundation for its busy future.
I have painted a picture of the Passenger House and in it I also added a historic scene from July 14th, 1859 when Abe Lincoln and his entourage were on official business for the railroad which was only a handful of years old.
I felt strongly compelled to paint this image and to share this video which explains his visit. If you would like to earn more about that nine day tip Lincoln was on to assess the ICRR property I have listed my resources near the end of this video.
Whether or not Lincoln stopped here was a mystery for years, but it didn't take a rocket scientist to assume that during the great debates with Stephen A. Douglas in August of 1858 they had to go right through Mendota to Freeport IL, two main stops on the ICRR. I have an entire video devoted to that week and explain his travels in the area.
Enjoy the little history lesson and come visit the Mendota Railroad Museum and walk around the grounds and stand on the same spot where Lincoln walked.
