Springfield, IL (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – Springfield is full of history, and the convention and visitors bureau is working on how to spotlight more of it. “History Beyond the Tracks” would include information about the Lincoln Colored Home and Springfield’s Black fire house.

“If federal funding is secured, then the Springfield 1908 Race Riot National Monument would serve as a powerful anchor in this community for this entire initiative,” said Manny Mikaelson during a presentation to Tuesday’s city council meeting. “Its national designation will significantly elevate Springfield’s visibility and reinforce the city’s role in telling this central chapter in American history.”

The locations, pretty much east of Eleventh Street, include Engine House Number Five and the Lincoln Colored Home.

Mikaelson is a small businessman who is also on the board of the United Way.