Springfield, Illinois is honoring Black History Month in a big way, with an array of events spanning insightful tours to educational films—all aimed at celebrating and reflecting on the lives and contributions of Black Americans in the area. Throughout February, state historic sites in the city are opening their doors to the public for a series of free events, no reservations necessary. These programs are a collaborative effort by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, the Illinois State Museum, Lincoln Library, the Illinois State Military Museum, and Fever River Research.

One of the key attractions is the Illinois State Museum's Research and Collections Center, where visitors can delve into Springfield's Black history through two parts. "Black Lives in Springfield Part I: Work and Home Life" kicks off at 6 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 20, while "Black Lives in Springfield Part II: Military Service" follows at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 26. These events will spotlight personal artifacts from the 10th Street archaeological dig, painting a picture of Black Springfield residents at the turn of the 20th century and highlighting the valor of Black individuals in military service.

Another highlight is the visual exploration of poets Langston Hughes and Vachel Lindsay through the short film showcased at the Lincoln Library. This piece, produced by Rich Saal, looks at the relationship between these literary figures and is scheduled for noon on Friday, Feb. 21, and again on Friday, Feb. 28 in the library's multipurpose room, with an additional showing at 6:30 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 24 in the Carnegie Room. The Vachel Lindsay Home State Historic Site, significant for being a welcoming place for Hughes in Springfield, also features in the film, and a Q&A session with historic site interpreters will accompany each show.

For those eager to walk the paths of history, the 1908 Race Riot Walking Tours commence at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 22, and Friday, Feb. 28, beginning at the Lincoln statues at Sixth and Adams Streets. The tour will guide participants through downtown Springfield, unveiling the tumultuous events of 1908 near the Old State Capitol. Meanwhile, the Black History Cemetery Hikes offer a different terrain for historical exploration, starting at the Lincoln Tomb State Historic Site at 2 p.m. on Saturday, March 1, and Sunday, March 2. These hikes traverse Springfield's historic Oak Ridge Cemetery, and visitors are advised to bring water and suitable walking shoes.

For a comprehensive look at these opportunities to celebrate and learn, visitors can check out the full list of events and details provided by the state of Illinois. Each event promises a chance to deepen understanding of the Black experience in Springfield and celebrate the incredible legacies woven into the tapestry of American history.