A ranger hat sits on a railing in front of a red-brick building with tall tower.

Reading with a Ranger: Pittsfield Public Library

New Philadelphia National Historic Site

  • Aug 1, 2026 at 1:00 PM
  • Free

Learning to read and write was important work at New Philadelphia!

It helped African American residents find enslaved family members and run businesses. It also helped them petition the Illinois government for equal treatment. Reading was so important that Free Frank and his neighbors built a school for their children.

Join a Ranger and the Pittsfield Public Library for story time and activities at the that explore themes such as the Underground Railroad, African American history, National Parks, and more.

This children's program occurs on some Saturdays throughout the summer. Check the park’s calendar to find the next scheduled program. Each program consists of reading a story and enjoying a related activity.

We like to think that Free Frank and Free Lucy would smile at us remembering them through reading!

No reservations are required, and you are welcome to attend as frequently or infrequently as you like. While these programs are designed for elementary school ages, they are open to all children.

If you have questions about program times or how to get involved, please email e-mail us.

Fees

This event is free to attend.

Location

This program takes place at the Pittsfield Public Library, about 14 miles southeast of New Philadelphia National Historic Site. If navigating by GPS, use this address: 205 North Memorial Street, Pittsfield, Illinois 62363. Free parking is available in front of the library. Enter the children's library on the basement floor using the accessible entrance on the right side of the building.

Latitude and Longitude 39.608118, -90.807796

Schedule

Date:

Aug 1, 2026

Time:

1:00 PM

Duration:

2 hours

Stop by anytime during the listed hours!

Contact Information

Quinn Gilly
573-880-3120
Contact Us

Event Type

  • Children’s Program
  • Talk
Tags: new philadelphia, underground railroad, african american history and culture, abraham lincoln national heritage area, read with a ranger, libraries