Photo: NPS Photo
To a casual observer, New Philadelphia looked like a typical Illinois pioneer town.
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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.
4 experiences from the National Park Service, plus every activity offered in the park. Check details on NPS.gov before you go.
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…
Learn more about Find Flowers and Butterflies in Lucy's Garden on NPS.gov (opens in a new tab)
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…
Learn more about Go Birding at New Philadelphia on NPS.gov (opens in a new tab)
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…
Learn more about Take a Self-Guided Augmented Reality Tour! on NPS.gov (opens in a new tab)
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…
Learn more about Visit the New Philadelphia Information Kiosk on NPS.gov (opens in a new tab)Showing 4 of 4
Open 24 hours, daily · Operating Hours
The site is open to the public with no scheduled operating hours.
No entrance fees listed.
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Temperatures at our site can range from 0°F (-18°C) in the winter to 95°F (35°C) or warmer in the summer. Summers can be very humid, with intense sun, rainstorms, thunderstorms possible. Snow and occasional blizzard conditions are possible in the winter. Please dress appropriately for potential weather conditions and plan ahead.
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.
Mailing address: New Philadelphia National Historic Site, Springfield, IL 62703
Ask about trails, fees, weather, events, or planning your visit.
AI answers can be wrong. Check official NPS info before you go.
