Historic Alton, Illinois

Alton, Illinois has been the location of many historic events in the history of the United States. One such event was the final Lincoln and Douglas debate during the race for one of the two Illinois United States senate seats in 1858. A monument to this event with life sized bronze statues of Lincoln and Douglas is located at the Lincoln Douglas Square. Alton was also very important in the underground railroad and several historic homes still have tunnels and chambers that slaves used on their way to freedom. Robert Wadlow, the world's tallest man at 8 feet, 11 inches, lived in Alton until his death in 1940. Artifacts from his life can be seen at the Alton Museum of History & Art. Alton also has a reputation as being "one of the most haunted small towns in America" and many tours are given to explore the history behind the hauntings. Ruins of a Confederate Prison, a Confederate Cemetery and Memorial, as well as many historical homes, buildings and other museums, all chronicle Alton's historic past.

Alton Visitor Center Address and Phone Numbers

Alton Visitor Center
200 Piasa Street
Alton, IL 62002
618-465-6676
800-ALTON-IL (800-258-6645)

Historic Alton, Illinois Related Links:

Alton, Illinois Website, Downtown Alton Website, Rivers & Routes Website - Visit Alton

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