Discover Springfield’s Living Legacy
The Central East Cultural District is a designated State Cultural District that celebrates African American history, resilience, and innovation in Springfield, Illinois. Explore historic landmarks, cultural programming, and experiences that tell the story of a community that helped shape our nation.
Where History Lives and the Future Thrives
The Central East Cultural District spans 50 city blocks east of Downtown Springfield, anchored by historic icons such as Lincoln’s Colored Home, the 1908 Race Riot Site (now a National Monument), and the former Black Business Corridor along Route 66.
Here, you’ll find stories of triumph and resilience:
1908 Springfield Race Riot Site – A turning point in civil rights history and the founding of the NAACP.
Lincoln’s Colored Home – Illinois’ first Black orphanage, founded by Eva Carroll Monroe in 1898.
Route History Museum – Preserving the story of Black travelers during segregation and the Green Book era.
Union Baptist Church & Historic Firehouse #5 – Cultural anchors in Springfield’s African American community.
Key Projects & Attractions
- Imagine Route History Complex (2024): A state-of-the-art VR experience that immerses visitors in the Black experience along Route 66.
- Lincoln’s Colored Home Restoration: A century-old landmark brought back to life.
- Black Firehouse Renovation: Honoring the legacy of Springfield’s Black firefighters during segregation.
- Human Rights & Leadership Museum (Coming 2026): A bold space for education, advocacy, and leadership development.
Upcoming Cultural Events
- Eva Carroll Monroe Day: August 4
- International Firefighter Day: May 4
- Route History Black STEAM Week: January 12
- Springfield Urban League Anniversary Celebration: September 11-12, 2026
- Route 66 Centennial Celebration: All Year in 2026
- Juneteenth: 2026
Plan Your Visit
Experience cultural heritage like never before.
- Explore: Interactive district map (Need this created)
- Dine & Shop: Support Black-owned businesses
- Unique’s Bar & Grill
- B Haye’s Bait & Tackle
Tours: Book guided cultural and historical tours
Get Involved
Join us in preserving history and shaping the future:
- Volunteer opportunities
- Sponsorship packages
- Neighborhood Association engagement
- Pioneer Park
- Mather & Wells
Join us in creating positive change in the community.
