The National Park Service (NPS) is conducting a Special Resource Study (SRS) of the historic Dearfield settlement in Weld County, Colorado, authorized by the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2023. This study aims to assess Dearfield's eligibility for inclusion in the national park system. Established in 1910 by Oliver Toussaint Jackson, Dearfield was the largest African American homesteading settlement in Colorado.
The public is invited to provide input during the comment period, closing on Feb. 23, 2024, at 11:59 PM. Questions for feedback include the vision for preserving Dearfield, desired site management, preferred activities, important site features and support/opposition for a potential national park designation.
Additionally, three public meetings are scheduled:
- Jan. 16, 5-7 p.m., Blair-Caldwell African American Research Library, Denver.
- Jan. 17, 5-7 p.m., Greeley History Museum, Greeley.
- Jan. 19, 10 a.m. to noon, virtual webinar.
Dearfield supporters are encouraged to attend these meetings and submit positive comments online to contribute to the study.