On Oct. 19, over 75 family members, friends and colleagues gathered at “The Bates Farm” one mile north of Nicodemus, to celebrate her remarkable 38-year legacy as the founding President and Executive Director of the Nicodemus Historical Society (founded in 1986). Angela’s tireless efforts have ensured the preservation of Nicodemus, Kansas – an essential icon of the African American experience in post-Reconstruction on the Great Plains of western Kansas. She’s also protected and secured the legacy of Nicodemus safeguarding it for future generations. Under her leadership, she spearheaded efforts to secure Nicodemus as a National Historic Site, securing federal funding for historic preservation of its five historic buildings. The National Park Service Visitor Center, has hosted thousands of visitors since its designation in 1996. The public has an opportunity to learn about the resilience of these Black homesteaders who sought to experience freedom in the West.
Source: Great Bend Tribune
