Nicodemus Homecoming Emancipation Celebration (NHEC)

One of the most important places in the African-American experience is Nicodemus, Kansas which is the oldest and only remaining Black settlement west of the Mississippi River, established in 1877. Nicodemus was founded at the end of the post-Civil War Reconstruction period by former enslaved African Americans from Kentucky who migrated to the “Promised Land” of Kansas to experience freedom and the dream of building a town they could call their own. Nicodemus represents the involvement of African Americans in the westward expansion movement and ultimate settlement of the Great Plains. Like many small towns founded during the late 1800s Nicodemus lost most of its population. Today, it’s a living breathing community that has been designated as a National Park Site. Every year in late July and early August, descendants from all over the United States and around the world travel “home” to Nicodemus to celebrate the emancipation of their heritage and history. During this weekend known as “Homecoming”, the population swells to a thousand plus. Those in attendance re-acquaint with family and friends doing their part to keep the dream of their ancestors alive.

PURPOSE The Nicodemus Homecoming Emancipation Celebration (NHEC) endeavors to plan, execute, and support events highlighting the rich background and current growth of Nicodemus, Kansas. The company aims to produce an annual event celebrating the emancipation of the newly freed African Americans who migrated to Kansas.