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Shedd Aquarium

Elijah P. Lovejoy Monument

Alton Cemetery at Monument Ave., Alton, IL 62002

Historic Sites

Visit the monument of an amazingly persistent and inspirational freedom fighter, Elijah P. Lovejoy.

This monument memorializes Elijah P. Lovejoy, whose work and death in Alton gave him a place in history for the abolition of slavery. During the slavery era, Elijah Lovejoy was a pastor who wrote anti-slavery editorials so controversial he became an object of hatred by slaveholders. Despite threats to his life, he continued his anti-slavery writings in the Alton Observer, even after three of his printing presses were thrown into the Mississippi River. It was this persistence that led an angry pro-slavery mob to attack and kill him in 1837. Illinois 250

What's happening nearby...

Flotsam! River Circus in Alton

Lincoln Shields Recreation Area  •  Aug 25 @ 6:30PM

Flotsam! River Circus returns to Alton with a free, family-friendly performance featuring live music, circus acts, and giant puppets. Bring a blanket or lawn chair, enjoy…

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Alton Jazz & Wine Festival

Alton Amphitheater •  Aug 29 @ 6PM

Celebrate the legacy of Alton native Miles Davis at the Alton Jazz & Wine Festival on Aug. 29! Enjoy live jazz, local wines, food vendors and…

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Alton Pride Festival 2026

Belle Street  •  Sep 12 @ 11AM

Celebrate the 5th Annual Alton Pride Festival with live music, dazzling drag performances, local vendors, family-friendly activities, delicious food, and a day full of love, kindness,…

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