Illinois Communities Commemorate The Sesquicentennial of the Lincoln-Douglas Debates

From August to October of 1858 Lincoln and Douglas met in seven different cities scattered throughout the state of Illinois to participate in a series of formal political debates that framed the issues which were of critical importance in the conflict over slavery and states' rights. The Year 2008 marks the Sesquicentennial of the Lincoln-Douglas Debates in Illinois, and the communities where the debates took place are planning to commemorate this important occurrence with a series of events throughout the year called Reunion Tour 2008.

Starting on August 22 in Ottawa, Illinois, and ending on October 19 in Alton, Lincoln and Douglas will meet in each debate community, on a weekend closest to the actual debate, to reminisce, share their recollections and discuss some of the important issues that were at the heart of the contest. An accompanying naval officer will moderate the discussion and invite local press and audience members to ask questions of the candidates. The Reunion Tour 2008 will be the core of a weekend long celebration in each community. Plans very in each location. Activities include parades, period balls, historical festivals, art shows, picnics and even a tour of historic sites on a Segway.

The schedule of events commemorating the bicentennial are as follows:

Illinois State Historical Society * P.O. Box 1800, Springfield, IL 62705-1800 * 217-525-2781*Webmaster: Terri Cameron tcameron@historyillinois.org