Next stop was at Nicodemus, the first black settlement in Kansas. The town was founded in 1877 by African American settlers, many were former slaves who wanted to have a chance to own land. The town was named after the biblical figure Nicodemus, who helped prepare Jesus’ body for burial.
Despite the town’s decline over the years, Nicodemus remains as a symbol of African American resilience and self-determination. In 1996, it was designated a National Historic Site by the National Park Service. This gave the town the recognizition it deserved for its significance in American history.
Efforts are being made to preserve and interpret the town’s history, including the Nicodemus National Historic Site Visitor Center. Much to my disappointment the visitor center was closed which meant all the information I could find was on a few outdoor signs.
