New Philadelphia National Historic Site, National Historic Site in Illinois, United States
New Philadelphia National Historic Site is a National Historic Site in Barry, Illinois, United States. It protects the remains of a town founded in the 1830s, with visible traces of streets and foundations.
Founded in 1836 by Frank McWorter, a formerly enslaved man, the town grew as a stop on the Underground Railroad. It was largely abandoned by the late 19th century, and archaeological work began in the 2000s.
New Philadelphia was the first town in the United States founded by a Black man, Frank McWorter, and it became a place where people of different races lived together. Today, visitors can walk the grassy streets and imagine the community that once thrived here.
The site is open to visitors, but facilities are limited, so bring water and wear sturdy shoes. Check the weather before you go, as the grounds can be muddy after rain.
The site is unusual because it was a racially integrated town in the 19th century, which was rare at the time. Archaeologists have found artifacts that show daily life in the town, including items from households and businesses.
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