Theme of SEP Month: Black Resistance

Presentation by: Valerie Williams
Her presentation will focus on the African American history of Nicodemus, Kansas and how the small town became a self-sufficient community after the Civil War and continues to inspire hope.

Ms. Bates is a historian, historic preservationist, and a speaker for the Kansas Humanities Speakers Bureau. She is responsible for the development of African American history curriculums and educational programs throughout Kansas area schools and universities.  Ms. Bates is a founder, Executive Director, and Board member of the Nicodemus Historical Society & Museum, an organization committed to collecting, preserving, and interpreting the history of the only remaining western town established by African Americans during the Reconstruction Period following the American Civil War. In addition, she spearheaded efforts to get the city of Nicodemus designated as a part of the National Park Service (1989-1996). She is a descendent of the first settlers.

Ms. Bates has leveraged her knowledge and experience on Nicodemus as a consultant to documentaries about the historic area on Disney, Home and Garden TV, and PBS TV.  Ms. Bates’ awards include but are not limited to: Daughters of the American Revolution (2019); Women in American History (2012); Kansas Trail Blazer; 150 Kansans You Should Know (2012); and the National Trust for Historic Preservation African American Preservation Hero Award (1996).