Dearfield
Living the Dream on the Prairie
State: Colorado
County: Weld County
Founded: 1910
Abandoned: 1940s
Peak Population: 700
Dearfield was founded by O.T. Jackson as a place where Black Americans could own land and build wealth. At its peak, 700 people farmed the Colorado prairie. The Dust Bowl destroyed agriculture, and residents scattered. Restoration efforts are now underway.
Black Colony
O.T. Jackson believed land ownership was the key to Black prosperity. He recruited families to homestead on Colorado's plains.
Dust Bowl
The 1930s droughts devastated Dearfield's farms. Unable to grow crops, residents left. Jackson stayed until his death in 1948.
Timeline
- 1910 - Founded O.T. Jackson established colony
- 1921 - Peak 700 residents
- 1930s - Dust Bowl Drought destroyed farming
- 2019 - Restoration Preservation efforts began
Plan Your Visit
Best Time: Spring or fall
Difficulty: Easy
Time Needed: 1 hour
Quick Facts
- Colorado's largest Black agricultural colony
- O.T. Jackson stayed until his death
- Restoration and preservation ongoing
Location
Address: Near Wiggins, Colorado
Coordinates: 40.4019, -104.0369