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Season for Peak Fees: All Year Colonel Allensworth State Historic Park is the only California town to be founded, financed and governed by African Americans. The small farming community was founded in 1908 by Colonel Allen Allensworth and a group dedicated to improving the economic and social status of African Americans. Uncontrollable circumstances, including a drop in the area's water table, resulted in the town's demise. With continuing restoration and special even the town is coming back to life as a State Historic Park. The parks visitor center features a film about the site. A yearly rededication ceremony reaffirms the vision of the pioneers. Visitor Center & Tours: The park has a visitor center and tours are available by making arrangements in advance by calling 805/849-3433. The visitor center also features a video presentation, " The Spirit of Allensworth ", which is available for viewing from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., any the week. The most important building, historically and in the memory of Allensworth pioneers, is the schoolhouse. It was in use until 1972 and is furnished as it would have been on a school day in 1915. An audio presentation available on site. Audio presentations are also available at Grosse's Drug Store, and the Singleton General Store and Post Office. Also, important to the education of Allensworth's citizens was the Mary Dickenson Memorial Library, about 200 yards north of the school. Colonel Allensworth's residence furnished in the 1912 period. It contains items from the colonel's life in the service and the ministry. A small display of farm equipment is a reminder of the Allensworth economic base. Check the State Parks website for additional information on the weather, suggested day hikes, or to see the park brochure, campground map, park photos, video, and more. Information available will vary from park to park. Click here Park Kiosk Hours : Hi Season: None Lo Season: None |