Africatown: America's Last Slave Ship and the Community It Created

The story of Africatown is one of resilience and rebirth. In the late 19th century, a small group of entrepreneurs saw an opportunity to establish a thriving community in the heart of Texas. They envisioned a place where freed slaves could live freely, without fear of oppression.

On January 1st, 1873, the Africatown settlement was officially founded, with over 200 people arriving on the SS Central America. The community flourished, attracting families and individuals from across the country. The settlers established farms, schools, and churches, creating a sense of purpose and belonging among their new neighbors.

As the years passed, Africatown grew into a thriving agricultural region, known for its bountiful harvests and innovative farming practices. The community became a beacon of hope for those fleeing slavery in the United States, offering a chance at a better life. Today, visitors can explore the ruins of the original settlement, now a National Historic Site, where they can walk in the footsteps of the brave souls who created this remarkable community.