Entrance to the historic black town of Allensworth, California; (c) Soul Of America
Black Towns
African presence in the Black Towns of America does not begin or end with the institution of slavery. Despite this barbaric system giving rise to one of the most horrific holocausts known to civilization, the undaunted spirit of African people has proven a worthy match. The story of pioneers who actively participated in the building of black communities in the United States is incredible and emotionally stirring. First, a number of black people arrived in America as free men and women.
These women and men, facing treacherous physical surroundings and even more harsh and unaccommodating human environments circumvented legislated racial supremacy by cultivating communities in areas whites considered uninhabitable. Whether erected as Underground Railroad Stations or strategic outposts in desolate territories, these settlements were often secluded in swamp lands, deserts, sand dunes, or along rocky cliffs. They existed in nearly every state, as well as Canada and Mexico.
Some of these towns continue to exist in some form today. From Dempsey, Alaska to Eatonville, Florida, this missing chapter in American history is revealed.
Morris Turner, III
Author of Black Towns and Settlements
Black Towns By State
Alaska
Arkansas
California
Colorado
Delaware
Florida
Idaho
Illinois
Iowa
Kansas
Kentucky
Louisiana
Maine
Maryland
Minnesota
Mississippi
Missouri
Nebraska
Nevada
New Hampshire
New Mexico
New York
North Carolina
North Dakota
Oklahoma
South Carolina
Tennessee
Utah
Virginia
Washington
West Virginia
Wisconsin
I noticed that you do not have the communities in Texas listed. Is there a particular reason as to not include these communities?
Which communities are you referring to?
I noticed there were no cities listed for New Jersey, were there any?
We do have a Newark Black Travel Guide, https://soulofamerica.com/us-cities/newark/
Have you heard of Strong Inspirations show on youtube?
I host the show
I interview people around the world for them to share black history stories
Here’s one of my videos where the guest talks about a black town Mound Bayou
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0aiB3rbiLZQ&t=80s