Parks / New Philadelphia National Historic Site
New Philadelphia National Historic Site
National Historic Site · IL
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.
Official NPS page →Entrance Fees
This park is fee-free.
Upcoming Events
Reading with a Ranger: Pittsfield Public Library
Sep 5, 2026 · 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.
Reading with a Ranger: Barry Public Library
Sep 5, 2026 · This program takes place at the Barry Public Library, about 4 miles west of New Philadelphia National Historic Site. If navigating by GPS, use this address: 880 Bainbridge Street, Barry, Illinois 62312. Enter the library through the main entrance. Rangers will be just inside the front door. Parking is available along Bainbridge Street, and across the street at Lafayette Park.
Things to Do
Find Flowers and Butterflies in Lucy's Garden
New Philadelphia buzzes to life in Lucy’s Butterfly Garden! The wildflowers in this garden represent the types of plants that greeted the McWorters when they arrived. Today, bright flowers greet many native butterflies, moths, and bees.
Go Birding at New Philadelphia
Birds provide a living link to the past in New Philadelphia. Forest and field habitats continue to shelter many species that graced – and inspired – the McWorters. Bring your binoculars and your ears to look and listen for Eastern Meadowlarks, Sandhill Cranes, Bald Eagles, and more.
Take a Self-Guided Augmented Reality Tour!
Today, few hints of life in New Philadelphia remain above ground. Peek into the past with the New Philadelphia Association’s augmented reality app! Download the free app onto your mobile device. Animated people and structures will appear on the screen, revealing the town that once stood here.
Visit the New Philadelphia Information Kiosk
Start your experience at the Information Kiosk. Brochures and basic information are available here. Allow yourself at least a few minutes to explore exhibits that introduce you to the town’s history. The Information Kiosk is open all hours, daily.
Source: National Park Service.