Exploring Princeton, IL: A History Lover’s Tour
Princeton, Illinois is a town where history lives on every corner. Founded in the early frontier days when settlers had to contend with prairie wolves and Native Americans, Princeton has seen the rise and fall of coal mining and even played a role in the Underground Railroad. Along the way, it welcomed famous visitors such as Mark Twain, Susan B. Anthony, and Abraham Lincoln.
If you’re planning a trip, Princeton offers plenty of historic sites, museums, and landmarks that connect the past to the present. Here’s your guide to the best historic places to visit in Princeton, IL—all within easy reach of the Historic Knox Hotel.
Bureau County History Center
A cornerstone for local history buffs, the Bureau County History Center houses a museum covering centuries of Princeton’s past. It features rotating exhibits, a research center, and an extensive archive of photographs and documents. Knowledgeable curators and volunteers lead fascinating tours on weekends and by appointment—making it a must-see stop for history lovers.
Owen Lovejoy Homestead
The Lovejoy Homestead is a cornerstone of Princeton’s past. This 1800s home belonged to abolitionist and senator Owen Lovejoy and once served as a stop on the Underground Railroad. Preserved with period furniture and featuring a one-room schoolhouse, the homestead offers a vivid look into life in the 19th century.
Visitor Info: Open May through September, Friday–Sunday, 1–4 p.m. For tour details, call 815-879-9151.
Oakland Cemetery
Established just five years after Princeton’s founding, Oakland Cemetery blends history and beauty. Shaded paths wind past towering oak trees and ornate monuments that reflect the artistry of the time.
Notable burials include:
- Owen Lovejoy
- Titanic survivor Nellie Becker
- Nehemiah Matson, pioneer and historian, whose grave features a 34-foot granite monument
- The brothers of poet William Cullen Bryant
This cemetery is both a peaceful stroll and a journey through Princeton’s history.
Shadows of the Blue & Gray
Every October, Princeton transforms into a Civil War camp during Shadows of the Blue & Gray, a living history re-enactment. Cannons roar, soldiers march, and you can wander through encampments or watch a battle unfold. Don’t miss the chance to meet historical figures such as Abraham Lincoln and Ulysses S. Grant brought to life.
Learn more about Shadows of the Blue & Gray.
Red-Covered Bridge
Perhaps Princeton’s most iconic landmark, the Red Covered Bridge has stood since 1863. One of only five covered bridges remaining in Illinois—and the only one still open to traffic until 2023—it is a treasured symbol of the area.
The bridge carries its own folklore, thanks to the warning carved into its entrance:
“Five dollar fine for driving more than 12 horses or mule or cattle at one time or for leading any beast faster than a walk on or across this bridge.”
Though currently under restoration following a semi-truck accident, visitors can still see the bridge and appreciate its enduring legacy.
Stay in History While You Explore
To make the most of your historic adventure, stay at a hotel that’s part of Princeton’s story. The Historic Knox Hotel, built in 1858 as the Union Hotel, originally served travelers arriving by rail. Today, the property has been beautifully restored with Victorian details that make every stay feel like stepping back in time.