Major's Hall
[Cluster of 6 Plaques]
(Plaque 1)
Major's Hall
Erected 1852 by
William Trabue Major
Razed 1959
(Plaque 2)
Illinois Republican Party
born in Major's Hall
I have supposed myself since the organization of the Republican Party at Bloomington, in May 1856, bound as a party man by the platforms of the party then and since.
Statement by Abraham Lincoln in the Lincoln-Douglas Debate at Freeport Auguste 27, 1858.
(Plaque 3)
I. S. N. U.
Major's Hall both in spirit and in fact nurtured Illinois State Normal University founded in the times, and with the same high purpose as Lincoln's concern for people. the University held its first classes in Major's Hall. Here from October 5, 1857 to June 1860, the University spent its first three years. The imprint of Major's Hall remains strong upon the school.
(Plaque 4)
"We say to our southern brethren, 'We won't go out of the union and you shant.'" Generally accepted as the concluding statement of Abraham Lincoln's "Lost Speech" made here on May 29, 1856.
(Plaque 5)
This tablet marks the site where Abraham Lincoln delivered his famous "Lost Speech" May 29, 1856
Placed by Lettia Green Stevenson
this page online
Erected by McLean County Historical Society in memory of Wayne C. Townley.
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Government & Politics • Notable Events. In addition, it is included in the Former U.S. Presidents: #16 Abraham Lincoln series list. A significant historical month for this entry is May 1856.
Location. 40° 28.72′ N, 88° 59.563′ W. Marker is in Bloomington, Illinois, in McLean County. Marker is at the intersection of S. East Street and Front Street on S. East Street. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: Bloomington IL 61701, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. The Lost Speech (here, next to this marker); a different marker also named The Lost Speech (here, next to this marker); Asahel Gridley's Bank (within shouting distance of this marker); Miller-Davis Buildings (within shouting distance of this marker); Miller-Davis Building (within shouting distance of this marker); The National Hotel (about 400 feet away, measured in a direct line); The Rounds Block (about 400 feet away); Sigmund Livingston (about 400 feet away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Bloomington.
Credits. This page was last revised on August 3, 2020. It was originally submitted on July 13, 2012, by Bill Pfingsten of Bel Air, Maryland. This page has been viewed 532 times since then and 44 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7. submitted on July 13, 2012, by Bill Pfingsten of Bel Air, Maryland.
