A town takes shape
Jabez Capps, George Turley, and Dr. Barton Robinson helped establish the community that became Mt. Pulaski.
Explore Mt. Pulaski
A small Central Illinois town with a large place in history.
Mt. Pulaski combines a historic town square, Abraham Lincoln’s legal legacy, local landmarks, parks, murals, and generations of community traditions.
Our story
From the 1830s forward
Mt. Pulaski was founded in 1836 and named for Revolutionary War Brigadier General Casimir Pulaski. Its history is closely tied to Abraham Lincoln’s years as a prairie lawyer.
Law on the circuit
Abraham Lincoln practiced law in Mt. Pulaski while traveling Illinois’ 8th Judicial Circuit. The courthouse remains one of the town’s defining historic landmarks.
Vinegar Hill and beyond
The town’s history extends through prohibition-era stories, radio pioneer Vaughn De Leath, civic traditions, murals, and generations of local organizations.
Start here
Places that tell the story
A few of the best places to begin exploring Mt. Pulaski.
Historic center
The Town Square
The civic and social center of town, anchored by the historic courthouse, gazebo, local businesses, and broad walkable streets.
Lincoln history
Mt. Pulaski Courthouse
One of two surviving 8th Judicial Circuit courthouses still standing on its original site, where Abraham Lincoln practiced law.
Local history
Township Historical Museum
A local collection preserving community history and the people, places, and stories that shaped Mt. Pulaski.
More to see
Explore around town
Looking for Lincoln CommunityMt. Pulaski is part of the Abraham Lincoln National Heritage Area.
Historic muralsPublic murals commemorate the Wright Brothers plane-train race and the Pulaski House.
Parks & recreationLocal parks and the community pool add outdoor stops beyond the historic square.
Veterans MemorialA community landmark honoring local military service.
Find your next stop
Looking for a business, restaurant, organization, or historic site?
Use the town directory as the practical companion to this overview.