Africa Defined

In the fifty years following the Civil War, more than eighty black towns were established in the United States. These towns aimed to promote economic independence, self-government, and social equality for African Americans. They represented a beacon of hope and a strategy for creating safe havens where black citizens could thrive away from the oppressive racism and violence prevalent in other parts of the country. Among these towns, Nicodemus, Kansas, and Boley, Oklahoma, stand out as significant examples.

Nicodemus, Kansas

Founded in 1877 by a corporation of seven members, six of whom were black, Nicodemus was advertised as the “Promised Land.” Promoters posted circulars throughout the South, particularly in Tennessee, Kentucky, and Mississippi, to attract settlers. By 1879, Nicodemus had a population of 700. However, the town faced significant challenges. A decade of harsh weather and poor crops took a toll on the residents. The town’s fate was sealed in 1887 when the Union Pacific Railroad announced it would bypass Nicodemus. Like many other black towns that failed to attract a rail line, Nicodemus gradually dwindled and ultimately declined.

Boley, Oklahoma

Boley was founded in 1904 by Creek Freedmen, emancipated Creeks of African descent who had been slaves of Muscogee Creek tribal members before 1866. After the Civil War, the United States negotiated new treaties with tribes that had allied with the Confederacy, requiring them to emancipate their slaves and grant them membership in the tribes. Boley, situated with no other black towns nearby, quickly became a regional business center.

During the early 20th century, Boley was one of the wealthiest black towns in the United States. Its success was fueled by access to railroad transportation and fertile land. By 1907, Boley had a population of 1,000 residents, with twice as many farmers living outside the town. Booker T. Washington praised Boley as a model of black self-help and economic success.

However, Boley’s boom was short-lived. With Oklahoma’s statehood in 1907, the Democratic Party, which controlled the state government, imposed Jim Crow segregation and discrimination. This effectively disfranchised Boley’s residents and subjected the town to a hostile political environment. The imposition of these racist policies stifled the growth and prosperity of Boley, mirroring the challenges faced by many other black towns during this era.

The Legacy of Black Towns

Despite the decline of many black towns, their legacy remains significant. These towns were symbols of resilience and determination in the face of systemic racism. They demonstrated the potential for African Americans to create thriving communities through economic independence and self-governance. The stories of Nicodemus, Boley, and other black towns continue to inspire efforts to promote social equality and economic empowerment within African American communities today.