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Discovering New Philadelphia: An Evening with Jeff Williams

ISM-Springfield
Discovering New Philadelphia: An Evening with Jeff Williams 1836 – Following the Flower to New Philadelphia, IL, winner of the 2024 NoirIV exhibition celebrating Black art and creativity, shows a vivid artistic representation of New Philadelphia, a village founded by Free Frank McWorter in 1836. What makes New Philadelphia so special is that it was the first town to be founded and platted by an African American prior to the Civil War. Built on a foundation of freedom, hope, entrepreneurship, and peace, New Philadelphia was a bustling integrated community that is now lost to time.
Thursday, March 13, 2025
06:00 PM to 07:00 PM CDT
Research and Collections Center
  • 1011 E. Ash Street
  • Springfield, Illinois 62703

ISM invites you to join graphic designer Jeff Williams, the creative mind behind 1836 – Following the Flower to New Philadelphia, IL as he discusses his inspiration for the piece, the story of Free Frank and New Philadelphia.

Questions? Contact DNR.ISM.Events@illinois.gov.

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