History
  
Genealogy
 
Project Background
 
Archaeology

The history of New Philadelphia, founded in 1836 by Frank and Lucy McWorter, embraces the compelling stories of African Americans and European Americans residing in a community founded by exceptional individuals during times of extreme racism. Archaeologists, historians, genealogists, and members of the local and descendant communities are working together to advance research into this remarkable crossroads of families, merchants, farmers, and artisans, and to enhance their focus in our national memory and heritage. Join us in exploring these histories and debates which are stimulating dialogue and engagement at local, national, and international levels.

New Philadelphia National Historic Site
is America's 424th National Park!

From the National Park Service

"New Philadelphia National Historic Site has been established as the newest national park to commemorate the history of early 19th century Black pioneers in Illinois. Located near Barry, Illinois, New Philadelphia is the first town known to be officially registered by an African American. Frank McWorter, once an enslaved man, bought his freedom and the freedom of 15 family members by mining for crude niter in Kentucky caves and processing the mined material into saltpeter, by hiring his time to other settlers, and by selling lots in New Philadelphia, the town he founded."

"The New Philadelphia site is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, designated as a National Historic Landmark, and included in the National Park Service's National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom. Learn more (link)."

"New Philadelphia National Historic Site is the 424th park in the National Park System!"

Read additional updates from the University of Illinois News Bureau and National Public Radio (St.Louis).

April 4, 2024 NPS News Release: Christopher Collins appointed as superintendent of New Philadelphia National Historic Site. Learn more (link).

This Web 2.0 portal provides resources for participating and discussing this ongoing project. Click here for our Web 1.0 site, entitled Historical Landscapes of New Philadelphia.


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In addition to the resources presented here,
you can also visit our group site on Facebook!
Follow this link to join in our discussions.

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Our group Flickr page provides maps,
data images, and photographs which you
can mark up with your own comments or questions.