The History of All-Black Towns in Oklahoma and How Texas Can Help In Their Quest for Economic Independence.
TATUMS, OKLAHOMA- Black Together Again: Collaboration for a Brighter Future. By Pastor Kyev P. Tatum, Sr., New Mount Rose Missionary Baptist Church of Fort Worth, Texas. History:
TATUMS, OKLAHOMA- On February 22, 2025, I will have the honor of meeting with the Oklahoma Conference of Black Mayors at their bi-monthly gathering. This meeting represents an opportunity to explore ways that Oklahoma and Texas can collaborate to improve the quality of life for African Americans in both states. I want to extend my gratitude to Mayor Chris Harvey of Tatums, Oklahoma, for the invitation.
The legacy of all-Black towns in Oklahoma is a testament to African American resilience, economic independence, and self-determination. These towns, established primarily in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, were built as safe havens for Black people seeking freedom from racial violence and discrimination in the post-Reconstruction era. Oklahoma, once known as Indian Territory, became a beacon of hope for African Americans, who saw it as a land of opportunity and a place where they could govern themselves, own land, and create thriving communities.
Origins and Growth
Before Oklahoma achieved statehood in 1907, Indian Territory was home to Native American tribes displaced by the U.S. government’s forced relocation policies, known as the Trail of Tears. Many enslaved African Americans had been brought to Indian Territory by these tribes. After emancipation, formerly enslaved individuals, known as Freedmen, gained rights and land through tribal affiliations. This access to land, combined with the promise of economic and political independence, encouraged Black settlers to establish their own communities.
From the 1860s to the 1920s, over 50 all-Black towns were founded in what is now Oklahoma, more than any other state in the nation. These towns thrived with Black-owned businesses, schools, banks, newspapers, and churches. They became models of Black self-sufficiency and symbols of what could be achieved without interference from white supremacy.
Notable All-Black Towns
Some of the most well-known Black towns in Oklahoma include:
• Boley (1903), One of the most successful Black towns, Boley attracted prominent leaders, businesses, and even a visit from Booker T. Washington. It was home to the first Black-owned bank in the state and had a thriving economy.
• Langston (1890), Founded by Edwin McCabe, who envisioned Oklahoma as a Black state, Langston became home to Langston University, one of the nation’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).
• Clearview (1903), Known for its cultural and social life, including a successful school system and Black-owned businesses.
• Tatums (1895), Named after its founder, Lee Tatum, this town has continued to maintain its historic identity.
• Rentiesville (1903), The birthplace of jazz legend D.C. Minner, Rentiesville was a cultural hub and played a role in the Civil Rights Movement.
• Taft (1902), A settlement for Black people, Taft is one of the few remaining Black towns with a continuously operating government.
Challenges and Decline
Despite their early success, many Black towns faced significant challenges, including:
• Racial Violence, The 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre was a stark example of how white mobs destroyed prosperous Black communities. Many towns experienced racial intimidation, lynchings, and land theft.
• Economic Hardships, The Great Depression, agricultural decline, and lack of infrastructure funding made it difficult for towns to sustain themselves.
• Urban Migration, With opportunities dwindling, many Black residents moved to larger cities for work, contributing to population decline.
Preservation and Revival
Today, only a handful of these towns remain with active governments, but efforts to preserve their history and revitalize their communities are ongoing. The Oklahoma Conference of Black Mayors plays a crucial role in advocating for these historic towns, ensuring their stories are not forgotten and that they remain viable communities. Events, historical markers, and tourism efforts aim to celebrate and preserve the rich history of these towns.
The legacy of Oklahoma’s all-Black towns is one of courage, community, and resilience. By working together across state lines, we can ensure that this history not only remains alive but also serves as inspiration for future generations.
Here is a video explaining the history of Black towns in Oklahoma:
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