Nicodemus Emancipation and Homecoming Celebration

Nicodemus Emancipation and Homecoming Celebration

Last weekend in July

The Nicodemus Emancipation and Homecoming Celebration is held annually the last weekend in July to celebrate the abolishment of slavery in the United States. It also celebrates Nicodemus, an all-black town in northwest Kansas that was settled by former slaves fleeing the south in 1877 after the post-Civil War Reconstruction period had ended. The town was named after a legendary slave who reportedly bought his own freedom. The town is the only still-living all-black community west of the Mississippi founded by former slaves. Originally settled by 350 freed slaves, it now has a permanent population of about 40 people. The town, which comprises five historic buildings, was declared a National Historic Site in 1998. Only one building is open to visitors.
The Emancipation and Homecoming Celebration has taken place every year since 1878. The event includes such attractions as a parade, a fashion show, military displays, and descendants' program, which draws relatives of the original town settlers from across the country.

CONTACTS:
Nicodemus National Historic Site
304 Washington Ave.
Nicodemus, KS 67625-3015
785-839-4233 or 785-839-4321; fax: 785-839-4325
www.nps.gov/nico/home.htm

SOURCES:
AAH-2007, p. 355

Celebration days:
2011: Jul 30; Jul 31
2012: Jul 28; Jul 29
2013: Jul 27; Jul 28
2014: Jul 26; Jul 27
2015: Jul 25; Jul 26