The Legacy of Nicodemus, Kansas: Preserving the History of a Pioneering African American Settlement
The Origins of Nicodemus
Nicodemus, Kansas, holds a unique place in American history as one of the first all-Black towns west of the Mississippi River. Established in 1877 by formerly enslaved African Americans from Kentucky, the town was named after an African American slave who purchased his freedom and became a prominent figure in the community. This pioneering settlement was a beacon of hope and autonomy for newly freed Black families seeking freedom and land ownership during the oppressive post-Reconstruction era.
The Great Exodus and the Founding of Nicodemus
The founding of Nicodemus coincided with the Great Exodus, the first voluntary mass migration of African Americans from the South. Facing the harsh realities of Black Codes and the rise of the Ku Klux Klan, tens of thousands of African Americans sought safety and opportunity in the Midwest. This led to the establishment of Nicodemus, a town that symbolized a new beginning and a “promised land” for many.
Angela Bates and the Nicodemus Historical Society
Angela Bates, a fifth-generation descendant of Nicodemus settlers, has dedicated her life to preserving the rich history of this pioneering town. Raised in California, Bates eventually moved to Kansas and founded the Nicodemus Historical Society. Her efforts have been instrumental in documenting and maintaining the town’s history through oral histories, photographs, and documents.
The Nicodemus Historical Society operates a museum and archives that display artifacts related to the town’s history. Annual events, such as the Nicodemus Emancipation Celebration, commemorate the town’s founding and celebrate African American culture and history. Bates’s work ensures that the legacy of Nicodemus is not forgotten and that future generations understand the significance of this remarkable settlement.
National Historic Site Designation
In recognition of its historical importance, Nicodemus was declared a National Historic Site by Congress on November 12, 1996. Managed by the National Park Service, this designation helps protect the town’s historic buildings and landscapes. Visitors can explore the Nicodemus National Historic Site, which offers a park documentary from 1993 and opportunities to become a Junior Ranger. The site is located at 304 Washington Ave., Nicodemus, KS 67625-3015, and can be contacted via the Nicodemus Visitor Center and Township Hall at 785-839-4233.
Preserving the Spirit of Nicodemus
The community’s commitment to preserving Nicodemus’s history is evident in their ongoing efforts to maintain and restore historic structures such as the First Baptist Church, the A.M.E. Church, and the Nicodemus School District No. 1 building. These buildings serve as tangible reminders of the town’s resilient spirit and the determination of its founders to create a thriving community despite numerous challenges.
Bates has also contributed to the preservation of Nicodemus’s history by bringing oral histories to the Spencer Research Library at the University of Kansas. This library houses a collection of photographs and documents related to Nicodemus, serving as a vital repository for the town’s history. Bates recently completed a documentary on the settlement and its legacy, highlighting the community’s origins and its significance far from the Kentucky hills where many settlers were recruited.
Connecting with Broader Historical Contexts
Nicodemus connects with other historical sites such as Fort Larned National Historic Site, the Santa Fe National Historic Trail, and the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve. These connections offer a broader context of the region’s history and the African American experience in the Great Plains. The preservation efforts in Nicodemus not only honor the legacy of its founders but also contribute to a broader understanding of African American history in the United States.
Closing
The legacy of Nicodemus, Kansas, is a testament to the resilience and determination of its founders. Through the efforts of descendants like Angela Bates and the support of the National Park Service, the history and heritage of this pioneering African American settlement continue to be preserved and celebrated. Nicodemus stands as a symbol of hope, freedom, and the enduring spirit of a community that overcame formidable odds to create a thriving town. As we honor the legacy of Nicodemus, we ensure that its story remains an integral part of American history.