About New Philadelphia National Historic Site
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.
Quick Facts
Operating Hours
The site is open to the public with no scheduled operating hours.
Activities
Getting There
New Philadelphia National Historic Site is in rural western Illinois between the Mississippi and Illinois rivers near Interstate 72. The site can be reached by turning onto 306th Lane from County Highway 2. An informational kiosk is immediately on the left after turning onto 306th Lane. The small city of Barry lies two miles west and has the nearest services. Hannibal, Missouri, is 27 miles west. Springfield, Illinois, is 76 miles east. St. Louis lies about 115 miles south.
View Official DirectionsContact & Address
Topics & Themes
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…
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…
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…
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…
Outdoor information exhibits and brochures are available at the kiosk.
🗺️ Guided Tours & Experiences
Discover New Philadelphia National Historic Site with expert-led tours
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
🏨 Find Hotels Near New Philadelphia National Historic Site
Compare accommodation options for your visit
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
More Parks in Illinois
Plan Your Trip From a Nearby City
Find national parks near these cities, including New Philadelphia National Historic Site.