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Get InspiredNorth AmericaUnited StatesIllinoisBarryNew Philadelphia National Historic Site

New Philadelphia National Historic Site

US
National Historic Site·Peaceful, Reflective, Educational
View of New Philadelphia National Historic Site on a sunny day.
Photo by from Nps
A kiosk houses several informational panels at New Philadelphia National Historic Site.
Photo by from Nps
Visitors can take a self-guided ¼-mile-long walking tour of the site using an augmented virtual reality app managed by the New Philadelphia Association. The app is available to download for electronic handheld devices, cost-free, at the kiosk.
Photo by from Nps
Schoolchildren at the New Philadelphia School, October 1925.
Photo by from Nps
Lucy McWorter, Free Frank McWorter’s wife, 1800s.
Photo by from Nps
View of New Philadelphia National Historic Site on a sunny day.
Photo by from Nps
A kiosk houses several informational panels at New Philadelphia National Historic Site.
Photo by from Nps
Visitors can take a self-guided ¼-mile-long walking tour of the site using an augmented virtual reality app managed by the New Philadelphia Association. The app is available to download for electronic handheld devices, cost-free, at the kiosk.
Photo by from Nps
Schoolchildren at the New Philadelphia School, October 1925.
Photo by from Nps
Lucy McWorter, Free Frank McWorter’s wife, 1800s.
Photo by from Nps

New Philadelphia National Historic Site preserves the groundbreaking legacy of Free Frank McWorter, a formerly enslaved man who founded this town in 1836. As the first town in the United States to be platted and registered by an African American, it served as a unique, racially diverse community on the Illinois frontier. Today, the site consists of a peaceful natural landscape where visitors can walk the grounds of the former settlement. Educational markers provide context on the McWorter family's journey and the community's growth during the 19th century. It is a powerful destination for reflecting on American history and the enduring quest for freedom.

New Philadelphia National Historic Site preserves the groundbreaking legacy of Free Frank McWorter, a formerly enslaved man who founded this town in 1836. As the first town in the United States to be platted and registered by an African American, it served as a unique, racially diverse community on the Illinois frontier. Today, the site consists of a peaceful natural landscape where visitors can walk the grounds of the former settlement. Educational markers provide context on the McWorter family's journey and the community's growth during the 19th century. It is a powerful destination for reflecting on American history and the enduring quest for freedom.

Address
New Philadelphia National Historic Site
Websitenps.gov
Phone217-492-4241

Highlights

  • Site of the first town platted by an African American in 1836.

  • Educational markers detailing the McWorter family history.

  • Open landscape ideal for quiet reflection and walking.

  • Significant contribution to the history of the Illinois frontier.

Before you go: New Philadelphia National Historic Site essentials

  • The site is primarily an outdoor, open-air experience; dress according to the weather.

  • Educational markers are the primary way to engage with the history of the site.

  • The location is best suited for those interested in self-guided historical reflection.

Best For

History enthusiasts and those seeking a reflective outdoor experience.

Currency

USD $

Average Cost

$50-$100 p/day

Languages Spoken

English

Occasion Tags

Educational, History Buffs

Add dates for experiences

Location

Barry, Illinois, United States
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