15th anniversary of Barack Obama's historic presidential campaign announcement marked

Fifteen years ago, then-U.S. Sen. Barack Obama announced his candidacy for president during an event witnessed by thousands at the Old State Capitol in Springfield.

To commemorate both Obama's historic announcement that day — Feb. 10, 2007 — and a later one to introduce running mate Sen. Joe Biden, the Old State Capitol Foundation and Illinois Department of Natural Resources announced that a historical marker will be erected on the Old State Capitol grounds.

“From his official presidential announcement to his service in the Statehouse, President Obama’s legacy of leadership began with his service to the people of Illinois,” Gov. JB Pritzker said Thursday in a state release announcing the historical marker. “This marker of Obama’s historic announcement at the Old State Capitol will ensure his story will forever be a part of Illinois’ history.”

Previously: A future statue could honor Obama's connection with Springfield

Obama won the election on Nov. 4, 2008, becoming the 44th president and the first African American elected to the office. He served two terms.

The marker will be placed later this year.

Meanwhile, former first lady Michelle Obama was asking those who remember the events of Feb. 10, 2007, or were involved in any way, to share their stories using the hashtag #Obama08.

On that day 15 years ago, Obama received an enthusiastic welcome on what was a sun-drenched but frigid Saturday.

“Thousands of people came out on that cold, wintry day 15 years ago to hear Barack Obama’s historic announcement,” said David Joens, president of the Old State Capitol Foundation in a press release about the marker. “He chose to announce his candidacy at the Old State Capitol because of its historic ties to Abraham Lincoln, but he was also making history himself. That history needs to be recognized, and a permanent marker will do that.”

Springfield police endorsed a widely-reported crowd estimate of 15,000 to 17,000, although an independent estimate by The State Journal-Register at the time suggested the throng was closer to about 10,000.

"It's humbling to see a crowd like this, but in my heart, I know you didn't come here just for me," Obama told the crowd that day.

More Old Capitol: Springfield got an up-close look at Joe Biden when Obama introduced him as his VP choice

Obama was riding a wave of popularity in national politics - one that would take him all the way to the White House.

During his 2007 speech, Obama made several references to Springfield's favorite son, Abraham Lincoln.

"By ourselves, this change will not happen. Divided, we are bound to fail," Obama said in a clear allusion to Lincoln's words.

The State Journal-Register interviewed several in the crowd that day. Many said they found the former state senator from Chicago to be relatable, enthusiastic and hopeful.

"I'm Black, he's Black. I'm from a broken home, he's from a broken home. He's not from a rich family, neither am I. That's what it means to me to see him up there today," Kamilah Jarvis said.  

Jarvis and Jennifer Lee had driven to Springfield from Chicago the night before to hear the announcement.

Obama's confidence and poise was noted by some in the crowd. 

"It was amazing," Springfield's Andrew Dambrauskas, said after the event. "I'm just very encouraged by how much confidence (with which) he spoke. I really like his plans - it really feels like a new hope for the country."