It's a beautiful park and pays homage to the town established by Colonel Allensworth in the early 1900's. Colonel Allensworth has a fascinating history. He was born in Louisville Kentucky in 1842 into slavery, but he was encouraged to learn to read and write. At age 12 he was sent away for violating a law that prohibited the education of slaves. He later joined the Union Navy and was honorably discharged as a chief petty officer.
After his service, he got a doctorate in theology and got married to a schoolteacher, Josephine. He retired as a Lieutenant Colonel in 1906. It was in retirement that he helped found the town of Allensworth. The goal was to establish a place where Blacks could live free of discrimination. This town brought in many talented people and thrived until 1914 when the railway changed its route, and Colonel Allensworth passed away.
above: The Schoolhouse
The town was revived and rebuilt in dedication to all the people who lived and worked in the town. The houses, schools, stores, and church have all been restored to their former glory. Peeking in the windows, you can still see the household and store items from the 1900's and you just expect at any moment someone is going to come around the corner and say hello. Each home has a brief history of each of the residents. I really enjoyed walking around and reading the brief life story of each person who lived there. My favorite was the barbershop where an old-fashioned barber chair is just waiting for someone to sit down and get a shave.
Boomer had a great time wandering around the town with Suzi. Having many dirt baths along the way.
and after dark, we heard them talking to each other.
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