The visionary behind Dearfield, Oliver T. Jackson, lived in the town until his death in 1948. Img source: Kunc.org
May 17, 2024 Story by: Editor
Tucked away just a stone’s throw from Highway 34 near Greeley, there lies a silent witness to history: Dearfield, a ghost town characterized by a few weathered structures and a weather-beaten sign. Once upon a time, in the early 1900s, this spot teemed with life as the bustling agricultural hub established by O.T. Jackson emerged, making it the largest Black homesteading enclave in Colorado.
During its zenith, Dearfield was home to approximately 300 industrious souls. It boasted a vibrant array of establishments, from a bustling grocery store to the rhythmic clang of the blacksmith’s forge. The community pulsated with vitality, hosting a school, numerous churches, and even a dance hall.
Its fertile lands yielded a bounty of corn, winter wheat, luscious melons, and succulent strawberries, propelling Dearfield into a realm of prosperity. However, the harsh realities of drought, the ravages of the Dust Bowl, and the economic turmoil of the Great Depression gradually eroded its fortunes, compelling many to seek greener pastures elsewhere.
Reflecting on Dearfield’s legacy, George Junne, a seasoned scholar in Africana Studies at the University of Northern Colorado, underscores its profound significance: “I think it’s been very, very important to have Dearfield be an example of what Black people could do and have done – and the future of what Black people could do.” His insights, shared with Erin O’Toole on In The NoCo, shed light on Dearfield’s enduring relevance, especially as the National Park Service explores the prospect of integrating it into the park system. Source: kunc.org
This Saturday, May 18th, marks the annual conference hosted by the Dearfield Preservation Committee, slated to take place at the Michener Library on the UNC campus. Whether attending in person or virtually, participants have the opportunity to delve into Dearfield’s rich tapestry of history and heritage.
