Juneteenth commemorates the effective end of slavery in the United States. It marks the day in 1865 when enslaved people in Texas were informed of their freedom after Union forces arrived to enforce the Emancipation Proclamation. This day is an opportunity to reflect on the journey toward equality and honor the resilience of Black communities. With that in mind, let’s dive into the rich history of this ghost town that was once a pioneering city championing equality.
Just a little over two hours north along the I-5, this small corner of the state is an unincorporated community that features one of California’s most curious and historically rich state parks. Preserving the houses, shops, and landmarks from its heyday as if time stood still, Allensworth keeps alive the memory of the first and only town in California founded, financed, and governed by African Americans.
Allensworth was founded in 1908 by Colonel Allen Allensworth, a former enslaved man and U.S. Army chaplain, along with a group of Black leaders. Their goal was to create a self-sustaining community where African Americans could live free from the racial discrimination. They purchased 20 acres of land near the Santa Fe Railroad where the community quickly flourished, establishing its own school district, courthouse, church, and businesses.
At its peak, it was home to around 300 residents, but the town’s success was short-lived. In 1914, the railroad system diverted its services away from Allensworth, significantly disrupting the town’s economy. That same year, Colonel Allensworth tragically died after being struck by a motorcycle in Monrovia. These events, coupled with a severe drought and water shortages, led to the town’s decline by the 1920s.
In 1974, the site was designated as Colonel Allensworth State Historic Park. Today, the place often described as a ghost town, preserves the city’s legacy where visitors are greeted by peaceful natural surroundings filled with wildlife like hawks, coyotes, and birdsong.
The park features many historic buildings, each with interpretive stops and audio guides explaining their original purposes. Notable sites include the Dickerson Library, once a school and later part of the Tulare County Library system; the Milner Barbershop; Colonel Allensworth’s former home; and the Scott Gross Store, which doubled as a family residence.
This historic park today offers a calm, peaceful atmosphere where visitors can connect with the enduring spirit of freedom, equality, and resilience that inspired its founding.
🎟️ Entrance fee: $10 per vehicle, $5 per car during Juneteenth events.
⏰ Hours: Daily 9AM-4PM. Visitor 10AM-4PM. Closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day.
📍 Location: Colonel Allensworth State Historic Park, Tulare County, California
