Historic photo of militia members standing in the remains of a burned building. Photo: Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture

Springfield 1908 Race Riot National Monument

National Monument · Illinois

In August 1908, a large White mob attacked the Black community in Springfield, Illinois.

  • LocationSpringfield, IL
  • Entrance No fee listed
  • Weather now86°F Light rain
  • Alerts No active alerts

Overview

Rioters destroyed homes and businesses and lynched two men. The event led to the founding of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP).

Today, archeological evidence gives a rare glimpse into a community devastated by the race riots of the early 20th century.

Topics
  • African American Heritage
  • Archeology
  • Civil Rights
  • Colonization and Settlement
  • Commerce
  • Massacres
  • Social Movements
  • Tragic Events
1 more topics
  • Urban America
Historic photo of two people using a hose to extinguish a burning building.
Two people attempt to extinguish a burning building in 1908. — Collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture

Plan Your Visit

Hours

No hours listed. Check the official park website before you go.

Entrance fees

No entrance fees listed.

Weather

86°F
Light rain · feels like 101°
  • Today 86° 63°
    Overcast
    82% rain
  • Tomorrow 70° 56°
    Sunny
    76% rain
  • Saturday 71° 49°
    Sunny
    4% rain

Updated 4 hr ago

What to expect by season

Summers in Illinois are hot and humid. Winters can be cold and windy.

Getting There

400 N. 9th Street
Springfield, IL 62702

Springfield 1908 Race Riot National Monument is a new national park located in central Springfield, Illinois. No facilities or services are available.

Full directions

The park is currently surrounded by a construction project and visiting is not advised.

Mailing address: Springfield 1908 Race Riot National Monument, Springfield, IL 62703

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