This site is designed to share the town
of Allensworth, which just so happens to include the State Historic Park.
Many, many people visit
Allensworth State Historic Park (CASHP) and think
they have seen the entire town.
This site doe not attempt to be all things
to all people. As historians and community-minded authors
our perspective is simple one of many - you are encouraged to
get as much information as possible. Through sharing our perspective
our hope is to weave the full context of the Allensworth saga.
In addition the the five founders of Allensworth,
several unsung heroes have increased our knowledge in making this
information available to the web audience, and in particular have
added focus to the town of Allensworth; Mrs. Nettie Morrison (holds
the distinction of the first president for Friends of Allensworth),
Mr. Ed Pope (the legend), Sam Pierro (the Artist), Dorothy Wells (created
town government). There are numerous others who are alive today and
in their regular business of living, keep the spirit of Allensworth
going today!
Allensworth is a town that you must see
to believe!! Even though the landscape has changed, the area
maintains a rural setting. What was once an African American
mecca has given way to people of hispanic-Mexican descent. The
town is approximately 2.5 hours from Los Angeles and approximately
4 hours from the Bay area.
Allensworth is not Disneyland......why
is this important??? Many who travel on excursions feel the
need to be entertained. At Allensworth the entertainment is feeling
the living history, the beauty in your visit will be understanding
How & Why a group of people lived. Sometimes the weather is cold,
and sometimes it is very hot, but whenever you decide to visit -
simply remember why you chose to come.
The town has great memories and some have
attempted to turn it into something it isn't. There are numerous
special events held in Allensworth but do yourself a favor, if
you are serious about discovering the richness of the town.........
visit
the town and talk to the people. You will be amazed!! In otherwords,
while we all appreciate entertainment do not get stuck on the stage
near the visitors center. The jewel is using the stage or grass
area for rest and reflections but get out and see the building.....walk
the streets......explore the soil - What are you looking for in your
Allensworth experience???
Many have said it, many have felt it.......It's
the spirit that makes Allensworth legendary. Again, 90%+ plus
of people who visit the park never set foot inside the town because
they do not know it is there. The town is immediately south
of the park, and upon further focus you will see a typical rural
setting accommodating approximately 300 families. Several of
the African Americans who call Allensworth home retired from the
Los Angeles area and have become vocal in sharing the current Allensworth.
There is approximately 125 students from grades K-8 at Allensworth
school.
Many groups have activities at the park,
under the supervision of the State who is responsible for
the park. The latest approved document "Allensworth 2008" spells
out how the park will be developed.
The year was 1908 and some bold folks
got together and decided the time was right to create a
town for themselves - one which would allow them to flourish
and simply enjoy life.
A California secret - as the town continues
today is has earned the distinction as "The Town That Refuses
to Die."
An editorial note
- Your feedback is critical and our goal is to communicate a simple message with some heart so don't be surprised to find some sentences that are not grammatically correct; however, our editors are serious about typos or other common errors that detract from the quality of material presented, SO PLEASE ALERT US. Courtesy A. Tims.
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Lately, much has been written and spoken about Allensworth.
Again our focus is the provide you with our perspective,
yet maintaining the goal of accurate and timely information
about Allensworth. We are not attempting to sell anything but more
interested in sharing our knowledge so that you are inspired to
know about this rich history. No longer will you be able to say "I
didn't know that!!!!" A book is currently under publication, but
in the meantime enjoy our full web adventure.
How We Got Involved. Fred and Judith
Thomas reside in Los Angeles, CA. In the late 80's there was
an exhibit at the California Afrom-American Museum called "Allensworth."
It was a great exhibit that left us perplexed as this history seemed
so closed, so touchable. After visiting Allensworth they were introduced
to other dedicated souls who had a true desire to keep the Allensworth
spirit alive. At the time, there was one group with the mission
of working with the State in spreading the Allensworth story -
The Friends of Allensworth. There was great concern the park would
be shut down as visitation to the park was declined and regardless
of the reasons, action was needed or else the park would be closed.
It was decided at that time Los Angeles
presented the greatest untapped visitor market. Out of the
Friends meeting a strategy was put in place to establish chapters
in various cities to attract people to visit the park. Los Angeles
was the first but many followed and the rest is history as Allensworth
is here to stay - for all to enjoy.
The initial meeting was legendary, as it
was held in the Baldwin Hills/Crenshaw Mall - Community Room
and included Mrs. Josephine Smith (The Colonel's granddaughter
who still resides in View Park), George Finley (Chairperson
for the Friends), Kathy Franklin (Regional Park Ranger) and Phillip
Hill (CASHP Ranger). Through this simple grass roots movement,
Fred and Judith were put in touch with many descendants who who thought
history had written-off Allensworth. They were gracious in telling
their stories and maintaining a place in history.
Again, thanks for stopping by and please
let us know if you need specific information.
As easy as it to find Allensworth,
information is hard to find........
A new link has been added featuring Allensworth
events, schedules, etc. Also, check out these sites below
for additional info on Allensworth. Please share our site with
others who may have an interest. Thanks.


This page was last updated June 2003