In the 1850s Monticello was connected by two railroads and became an important transportation stop. Abraham Lincoln rode the rails to Monticello in 1856 and 1858 to campaign. Today's highways connect Monticello with Springfield, Decatur and Champaign; it is not unusual for a family to have one spouse commuting to Champaign while the other works in Decatur.
Visitor Centers
Monticello Chamber of Commerce Livingston St. & Independence St. Monticello, IL 61856. Phone:(217)762-7921 or (800)952-3396
Self-guiding Tours
Walking tour maps of the historic districts are available at the chamber of commerce.