When: Sat, April 21, 10am-2pm
Where: Old State Capitol State Historic Site, 6th & Adams, Springfield, IL
Volunteer Training Day in the site’s Foundation hall on Level 2. The April 21 event will recruit and train those interested in volunteering, and introduce current volunteers to the new living history directions being taken to commermorate the 150th anniversary of the Civil War. The new program titled “Illinois’ Capitol Goes to War” will feature many new exhibits such as the Ladies’ Soldiers’ Aid Society, depicting the role of women who met in the building and organized supplies for the comfort and relieft of Illinois troops. Displays of Civil War flags, weapons and equipment are planned, and the “General of the Month” exhibit next to the Adjutant General’s Office will continue to highlight one Illinois Civil War general each month. These new features will demonstrate how the Old State Capitol was transformed from the seat of state government to the headquarters of a state at war. Volunteers are vital to the continued success of the programs at the Old State Capitol, Lincoln-Herndon Law Offices and the Vachel Lindsay Home. Volunteers can choose to be tour guides, costumed interpreters, greeters, costume makers, and take part in special events. Volunteers are also needed or the upcoming “History Comes Alive” living h istory program this season. During the 1840s and 1850s, the Old State Capitol was the scene of debate over issues that led the nation to war in 1861. During the civil War, the statehouse was the center of the state’s efforts at wartime mobilization. The capitol also provided space for local events aiding the needs of local residents as well as soldier relief efforts. The Old State Capitol State Hitoric Site, administered by the Illinois Historic Preservation Agency, is open fro 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday throughout the month of April and will be open seven days a week beginning May 1. Information: 217-785-7960 justin.blandford@illinois.gov www.oldstatecapitol.org
