Perseverance and Freedom on the Illinois Frontier

To a casual observer, New Philadelphia looked like a typical Illinois pioneer town. But a closer look revealed a unique and racially diverse community. New Philadelphia was the first US town platted and registered by an African American. A formerly enslaved man, Free Frank McWorter, founded New Philadelphia in 1836 and purchased freedom for himself and 15 family members. Read More

Four interpretive panels mounted under a covered, kiosk overlooking a prairie landscape.
Visiting New Philadelphia

Planning to visit? Start here! Check out information about parking, available services, and getting Passport to Your National Parks stamps.

A mowed path through prairie. There are numbered signs along the trail for a tour.
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Last updated: December 6, 2024

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

New Philadelphia National Historic Site
29766 306 Lane
Barry, IL 62312

Phone:

(573) 880-3120

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