Homesteading by African Americans

Black American communities were negatively impacted by the Homestead Act's implementation, which was designed to give land to those who had been enslaved and other underprivileged groups.

Among the six black homesteading communities in the Great Plains were Blackdom, New Mexico; Nicodemus, Kansas; DeWitty, Nebraska; Sully County, South Dakota; Empire, Wyoming; and Dearfield, Colorado.

In the journal "African American Homesteader “Colonies” in the Settling of the Great Plains", the writers talk about how unfair practices hindered their success, like not being able to get loans or agricultural extension services.

[1] A recent study carried out at the University of Nebraska with funding from the National Park Service provides a detailed account of the number and achievements of black homesteaders in the area.

Author Tassy uses conversations with the town's founding relatives and local historians to give readers a glimpse into Deerfield's colorful past and its lasting significance as a representation of African American resilience and community building in the face of hardship.