The Lemon Grove Historical Society presents its History Alive lecture series tonight featuring Allen Allensworth, a former slave who founded the central California town that is now the Col. Allensworth State Historic Park.
Allensworth was a slave in Louisville, KY, who taught himself how to read and write. He served the Union during the Civil War and afterward became an ordained minister.
“Searching for an opportunity to live stable lives free of discrimination, Allensworth and four other visionaries journeyed to California and founded a town 20 miles north of Bakersfield,” according to Helen Ofield, historical society president. “Today, that town is Col. Allensworth State Historic Park and it is a jewel in the crown of our state's historic resources.”
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Stephen Hill, president of the Friends of Allensworth/Chula Vista, will present the program. Hill is a noted essayist and authority on African-American towns across America.
A question and answer will follow the presentation. Refreshments will be served.
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The free program is suitable for participants age 13 and older.
For more information, call 619-460-4353.
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