Celebrate Black History Month at Colonel Allensworth SHP
Colonel Allensworth State Historic Park celebrated Black History Month in February 2011 with a series of activities including tours and soul touching lectures. Founded in 1908, Allensworth is an all African American town, a development represented the culmination of years of planning by its founder and namesake, Colonel Allen Allensworth. Colonel Allensworth served in the United States Navy during the Civil War, operated two restaurants, was an ordained minister, and served as the chaplain of the 24th Infantry until his retirement in 1906. When he retired, Colonel Allensworth was the highest ranking African American officer in the U.S. Army.
As part of Black History Month, all of the historic buildings were open for public tours and docents were dressed in period attire while providing visitors with interpretative presentations. With 22 house museums available to the viewing public, Allensworth offers the chance to see a turn-of-the-century town in its heyday. The town has all of the features common to rural America, including a church, school, library, hotel and general store. Aside from visiting the historic buildings and interpretive activities, visitors see a working blacksmith shop and candle making demonstrations. Families will also enjoy a children’s game area at the State Historic Park.
For more information on all of the Black History Month activities at Colonel Allensworth SHP, visit the Friends of Allensworth website at http://www.friendsofallensworth.com/