Washington, D.C. – The U.S. House of Representatives today passed Congressman Darin LaHood's (IL-18) bipartisan legislation to establish the New Philadelphia National Historical Park in Pike County, Illinois as a unit of the National Park System. The bill passed by a unanimous vote. LaHood's floor speech in support of the legislation can be viewed here.
New Philadelphia, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and designated as a National Historic Landmark, was the first town platted and legally registered by an African American, Free Frank McWorter. McWorter founded the town, which is now part of Barry, Illinois, in 1836.
“Since being elected, I have been proud to work with my colleagues in Congress, the Pike County community, and the New Philadelphia Association to properly preserve and recognize the New Philadelphia site," Rep. LaHood said. “Frank McWorter’s story is an important part of Illinois and our nation’s history, and the Pike County site deserves historical recognition. Today's passage is an important step in this recognition, and I urge my colleagues in Senate to pass this legislation.”
"The preservation of the town site of New Philadelphia is not only good for Western Illinois, but good for all Illinois, the nation and future generations. New Philadelphia being a part of the National Park system will ensure the story of how people of different racial backgrounds lived and worked together during a time of great racial strife in our country. This will help to inspire future generations," said Philip Bradshaw, President of the New Philadelphia Association. "The New Philadelphia Association truly appreciates the bi-partisan support for the legislation and Congressman LaHood’s leadership."
"Freedom is the heart of New Philadelphia. Recognizing this town as a NPS site affirms that our country continues to steer in that direction. Compared to New Philadelphia, Mark Twain is west in Hannibal and Abraham Lincoln is east in Springfield. Recognizing Free Frank McWorter affirms the contributions of African Americans alongside these two and many others. Thank you, Congressman LaHood," said Gerald McWorter.
New Philadelphia completes central Illinois’ 1800s freedom story. With anti-slavery writer Mark Twain to the west and President Abraham Lincoln to the east, town founder Frank McWorter embodies the central role of African Americans in their own freedom struggle. By bringing the site into the National Park System, this bill will allow more people to see and understand the historical and cultural significance of New Philadelphia and ensure its continued preservation for years to come.
Related:
LaHood Introduces Bill to Establish the New Philadelphia Site as a National Historical Park
House Natural Resources Committee Holds Hearing on Rep. LaHood's New Philadelphia Legislation
New Philadelphia legislation clears House committee
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