Abraham Lincoln’s connection to Council Bluffs runs deeper than a single visit. In 1859, Lincoln traveled to Council Bluffs, purchased 17 plots of land, and met with railroad engineer Grenville M. Dodge to discuss the future of the Transcontinental Railroad.
That visit helped shape an important chapter in Council Bluffs history — and today, several local landmarks keep Lincoln’s story alive.
Lincoln's Connections to Council Bluffs
In August 1859, Abraham Lincoln came to Council Bluffs to view parcels of land that his personal friend and campaign manager, Norman Judd, had recommended he purchase and use as collateral for a personal loan. At this time, Lincoln was not yet elected as the State Senator in Illinois. Lincoln didn’t stay for long in Council Bluffs but his visit made huge impacts on the city’s history and economy.
During his time in Council Bluffs, Lincoln stayed at the Pacific House Hotel on Broadway. On Saturday, August 13th, 1859, he met with Grenville Dodge on the porch and discussed the placement of the Transcontinental Railroad. After their meeting, it was decided that the eastern terminus for the first Transcontinental Railroad would be placed here in Council Bluffs. Later that day, he gave a speech at the Concert Hall on the corner of 6th street and Broadway.
Abraham Lincoln had family friends in Council Bluffs and spent time with them during his visit. After a planned picnic supper in Bayliss Park for Lincoln was crashed by 200 rowdy locals, the Pusey family hosted the reception in their home. Their home was located on the corner of Willow Ave and Pearl Street. The following day, Lincoln attended a church service at the Presbyterian Church with his longtime friends the Officer family.
Lincoln accomplished his goal while visiting Council Bluffs. He ended up purchasing the 17 plots of land to use as collateral for a personal loan. These 17 plots of land were located between 9th and 16th Avenue here in Council Bluffs.
Lincoln Attractions in Council Bluffs
Visit the Union Pacific Railroad Museum
Dive deeper into Lincoln’s connection to the railroad through the museum’s Lincoln Collection, featuring artifacts and stories connected to his life and his role in the development of the Transcontinental Railroad.
See the Lincoln Monument
Head to the Lincoln Monument near Fairview Cemetery for sweeping views of Council Bluffs and Omaha. The monument commemorates Lincoln’s 1859 visit and his meeting with Grenville Dodge.
Find the Lincoln Mural
Make a stop outside of Napoli's to see its striking Lincoln mural — a fun photo opportunity for history buffs and visitors exploring downtown.
Step Into Council Bluffs History
Trace Lincoln’s footsteps, explore the landmarks connected to his visit, and discover how one presidential visit helped shape Council Bluffs’ place in railroad history. Add these stops to your next history-filled adventure and UNleash a piece of the past.
The information in this blog was provided by The Union Pacific Railroad Museum and the Historic General Dodge House.
