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Nicodemus, Kansas

Nicodemus, Kansas

Nicodemus, an exoduster settlement in northcentral Kansas, is the last survivor of the dozen all-black communities founded in the state in the years following the Civil War. Settled in 1877, Nicodemus has been the subject of numerous articles, books, and television projects and is a designated National Historic Landmark District. A dugout house two miles east of Nicodemus has also been listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The first school and first church in Graham County were established at Nicodemus in the winter of 1877 - 78. The only remaining business is the Nicodemus Historical Society Museum, which operates sporadic hours. Although modern Nicodemus contains only approximately 20 people, it remains the oldest all black community of the western frontier.

Nicodemus is extremely proud of it\'s connection with \"The Buffalo Soldiers\" and offers the following information regarding all-black participation in the military. In 1997, Turner Broadcasting System, Inc. A Time Warner Company, produced a film made for television named \"The Buffalo Soldiers\", and Nicodemus\'s very own Barry Tompkins both acted in the movie and provided technical assistance in the area of horsemanship.

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.

Attractions and Upcoming Events

Township Hall

Construction for the Township Hall started in 1934 as a Works Progress Administration Project (WPA) with completion and dedication in 1939

Nicodemus, KS Historic Buildings

First Baptist Church

Several structures in succession, all at the same location, housed the congregation of the First Baptist Church from its founding in 1877

Nicodemus, KS Historic Churches

Nicodemus National Historic Site

The Nicodemus National Historic Site preserves, protects and interprets the only remaining western town established by African Americans during the Reconstruction Period following the Civil War. At the Visitor Center

Nicodemus, KS Museums

NSD #1 Schoolhouse

Nicodemus was the first community in Graham County, Kansas, to establish a school district and school. The existing school building was constructed in 1918

Nicodemus, KS Historic Schoolhouses

St. Francis Hotel

The St. Francis Hotel is a significant example of the businesses in Nicodemus during its era of great prosperity. Built in 1881

Nicodemus, KS Historic Hotels

Things to do near Nicodemus, KS

Sheridan State Lake Boating

Paved boat ramps are located on both the east and west sides of the lake. Motorized boats are allowed at no wake speeds, for ...

Cedar Bluffs Cemetery

My ancestors homesteaded in NW Kansas/SW Nebraska in the late 1800s. I am proud of them and they went through rough times, so...

St. Francis GMA Sandpit and Wildlife Area

Five acres of water, camping, picnics, 480 acres of wildlife management for public hunting. ...