Nicodemus National Historic Site
National Historic Site ยท Kansas
NPS Photo
National Historic Site of the United States
Nicodemus National Historic Site, located in Nicodemus, Kansas, United States, preserves, protects and interprets the only remaining western town established by African Americans during the Reconstruction Period following the American Civil War. 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. The site was named, at least in part, for a legendary African-American slave featured in abolitionist Henry Clay Work's "Wake, Nicodemus (1864)." It is a mystical story of an old slave died away and buried in a hollow tree who had asked to be awakened on the Day of Jubilee.
About Nicodemus National Historic Site
Formerly enslaved African Americans left Kentucky at the end of the post-Civil War Reconstruction period to experience freedom in the "Promised Land" of Kansas. Nicodemus represents the involvement of African Americans in the homesteading movement across the Great Plains. It is the oldest remaining Black settlement west of the Mississippi River.
Park Photos
Activities
Operating Hours
Park Hours
The Nicodemus Township Hall and visitor center is open year-round for five (5) days of the week, closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Visitor center hours are 9 am to 5 pm central time. The grounds are open 24 hours a day. The visitor center will be closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year Day.
| mon | tue | wed | thu | fri | sat | sun |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9:00AM - 5:00PM | Closed | Closed | 9:00AM - 5:00PM | 9:00AM - 5:00PM | 9:00AM - 5:00PM | 9:00AM - 5:00PM |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to enter Nicodemus National Historic Site?
Nicodemus National Historic Site is free to enter.
What are the best activities at Nicodemus National Historic Site?
Popular activities at Nicodemus National Historic Site include: Guided Tours, Self-Guided Tours - Walking, Self-Guided Tours - Auto, Junior Ranger Program, Park Film.
What is the weather like at Nicodemus National Historic Site?
Northwest Kansas has a four-season climate typified by long, hot summers, cold winters, short spring and fall seasons, and a nearly constant breeze. Humidity is relatively low compared to the eastern portion of the state. Afternoon thunderstorms with lightning, hail, and gusty winds frequently occur during the spring and summer. Tornados are possible but are less common in Kansas than they are in several other states. Snow accumulation from winter blizzards occasionally causes site to close.
How do I get to Nicodemus National Historic Site?
Nicodemus National Historic Site is located in northwestern Kansas on Highway 24 between Hill City and Stockton.
Entrance Fees
Free Admission
Weather
Northwest Kansas has a four-season climate typified by long, hot summers, cold winters, short spring and fall seasons, and a nearly constant breeze. Humidity is relatively low compared to the eastern portion of the state. Afternoon thunderstorms with lightning, hail, and gusty winds frequently occur during the spring and summer. Tornados are possible but are less common in Kansas than they are in several other states. Snow accumulation from winter blizzards occasionally causes site to close.
Directions
Nicodemus National Historic Site is located in northwestern Kansas on Highway 24 between Hill City and Stockton.
๐ View on Google Maps โLocation
Official Resources
NPS Official WebsiteMore Parks in Kansas
Other national park sites you might enjoy
