Moving to California can be an exciting experience. It is one of the most beautiful states in the whole country. It is glitzy and glamorous. While you may be aware of California’s rich Hollywood history and have heard about it being referenced in the Gold Rush days where thousands moved to the state hoping to make it rich, you may not be aware that the state is also rich in black history.
California is home to the truly unique town of Allensworth. In 1908, Colonel Allen Allensworth, along with four other people, founded the town. Interestingly, Allensworth was one of the first US towns to be established, founded, financed, and governed exclusively by African Americans. The founders had a dream to develop a community in which black Americans thrived and could have a better life. By 1910, the town’s success was making the headlines.
Unfortunately, though many people did relocate to the town, it became impossible for Allensworth’s inhabitants to realize their founders’ dream. The town remained the home for a few families throughout the 20th century and has been coined the “town that refused to die.” Although you are unable to relocate to the town now, it has been declared a historic site that many people visit every year.
Allensworth is about 30 miles north of Bakersfield and it is well worth a visit.
