Leafy Washington Square Park is a lovely place to relax while exploring downtown Ottawa, Illinois. Learn about the important public meetings that were held in this spot over 150 years ago and had a lasting impact on the United States of today.
Imagine 10,000 people clustered in this square on August 21, 1858 when Abraham Lincoln and Stephen A. Douglas met for a debate while competing for an Illinois senate seat. Lincoln presented his conviction that the nation must honor the original statement in the Declaration of Independence, that “all men are created equal.” He said equality must be the moral position for all men in the United States regardless of race. Although Lincoln lost the race for senate after seven debates with Douglas, he gained recognition and was elected president 2 years later.
Look for the central memorial with a plaque describing this history. Two large bronze statues of Lincoln and Douglas stand in the middle of a reflecting pool with fountains. Find a bench in the shade near the statues to reflect on how this peaceful discourse helped the anti-slavery movement gain hold, ultimately leading to the Civil War and the abolition of slavery.
A tall obelisk and a large boulder also decorate the park, memorializing war heroes. Across the street is a large mural showing Lincoln speaking in front of an enthusiastic crowd.
Visit the park in spring and summer when plantings around the statues display their colorful blossoms. Stop here for fresh produce, coffee and snacks at the Old Town Farmers Market on Saturday mornings from May to October. In winter Christmas lights decorate the trees and shrubs.
Stroll around Downtown Ottawa and stop in Washington Square Park after shopping or dining. Find the park between the Fox River and the Illinois River. Surrounding the park are several notable buildings including the Reddick Mansion and the Appellate Court.
Follow the Ottawa River Walk or amble northeast about 1 mile (1.6 kilometers) to reach the larger Lincoln-Douglas Park, which has a swimming pool, tennis courts, basketball courts and baseball diamonds.
