
Nicodemus National Historic Site

304 Washington Avenue
Bogue, KS 67625
United States




Discover Nicodemus National Historic Site

Nicodemus National Historic Site remains a living, thriving community. The site tells the inspiring story of hope, resilience, and determination as it preserves the legacy of the first and only remaining Black settlement on the Great Plains. Founded in 1877 by formerly enslaved African Americans seeking freedom and opportunity, Nicodemus became a symbol of Black self-sufficiency in the West. Located in rural Kansas, the site includes historic buildings and interpretive exhibits that highlight the struggles and triumphs of the town’s early settlers, as well as the legacy of the many descendants who still live in or consider Nicodemus home. A visit to Nicodemus offers a powerful glimpse into a lesser-known chapter of American history and the enduring spirit of its community.
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Explore Nicodemus National Historic Site
Nicodemus National Historic Site, located in northwestern Kansas, preserves and interprets the oldest and only Black settlement in the western United States. Formerly enslaved African Americans left Kentucky at the end of the post-Civil War Reconstruction Era to experience freedom in the “Promised Land” of Kansas. The town of Nicodemus is symbolic of the pioneer spirit of African Americans who dared to leave the only region they had been familiar with to seek personal freedom and the opportunity to develop their talents and capabilities. Several descendants of the original settlers still reside in Nicodemus, and many visit each year for the annual Emancipation Celebration. This homecoming event, which began in 1878, fosters the renewal of the spirit of Nicodemus.


12 hours at Nicodemus National Historic Site
Discover the legacy of the only remaining African American settlement west of the Mississippi, founded by those seeking freedom and opportunity.
Visit smart
Start at the visitor center
Learn about the history of Nicodemus through exhibits, films, and ranger-led programs.
Tour the historic buildings
Explore structures like the Township Hall, the First Baptist Church, and the Old Schoolhouse to see how the town evolved.
Visit during the Nicodemus Homecoming
Held annually in late July, this celebration brings descendants and visitors together to honor the town’s history.
Reflect on the legacy
Take time to appreciate the courage of Nicodemus’ settlers and their role in shaping the American West.

Over $162 million
Since our founding in 1938, WNP has provided more than $162 million in aid to our partner parks to fund educational programs, initiatives, and scientific research.
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