Jun 3, 2025 | African Americans, Bakersfield, Local, Los Angeles, Valleys

Allensworth: California’s Only All-Black Town Lives On

Where history meets resilience, Allensworth continues to stand as a powerful symbol of Black self-determination.

Nestled in California’s Central Valley between Bakersfield and Fresno, Allensworth State Historic Park marks the site the first and only town in California to be founded, financed, and governed by African Americans. Established in 1908 Colonel Allen Allensworth, who was born into enslavement in 1842, the town quickly became a beacon of Black excellence, education, and economic empowerment in the American West.

Today, Allensworth is more than a preserved historic site — it’s a living testament to the enduring power of community.

Through the stewardship of the nonprofit Friends of Allensworth, the park hosts four annual festivals that educate, honor,

and celebrate the town’s rich legacy.

Mark Your Calendars:

• February – Black History Festival

• April – Black Cowboy & Buffalo Soldiers Festival

• June – Juneteenth Festival (Saturday, June 14, 2025)

• October – Rededication Festival

These events, held on the second Saturday of each festival month, offer family-friendly activities, historical reenactments,

educational tours, and cultural performances that connect today’s generation with the spirit of Allensworth.

In a major collaboration for this year’s Juneteenth celebration, Amtrak San Joaquins is offering discounted train fares Allensworth to make the event more accessible to communities across the state. It’s the perfect opportunity to rediscover critical piece of California history and enjoy a day of culture, learning, and unity.

Learn more at: www.friendsofallensworth.org

Call: 877-245-6232

Facebook/Instagram: @FriendsofAllensworth