Allensworth was established as a township on August 3, 1908, by Colonel Allen Allensworth, who was born a slave in Louisville, Kentucky. Mr Allensworth had quite a life, as a thirteen year old boy, he was able to escape behind Union lines in 1855..eventually signed on as a nurse and was attached to the Hospital Corps of the 44th Illinois.

In April 1863, he joined the US Navy and rose from the rank of first class seaman to first class petty officer. He was honorably discharged on April 4, 1865. In 1867, he and his brother opened up 2 successful restaurants in St Louis, in the meantime, he became an ordained minister, sold the restaurants and joined the Baptist Church. He held several pastorates in Kentucky and Ohio.

Allensworth used his influence to secure the appointment of Black chaplains of Black regular Army recruits. He was appointed by the President as chaplain of the 24th Infantry with the rank of Captain.Throughout his long and rich career, he was stationed at different camps. He saw a need to assist with the Black soldier’s spiritual and moral education. After retiring with the rank of Colonel, he traveled extensively, lecturing on programs of self help for African Americans so that they might be self sufficient.

After exploring his options, he started visiting the area of central California and settled on the region of Tulare County known today as Allensworth. With other progressive thinking men and women in search of a new life, he developed the town into a bustling, busy and thriving community. It had churches, stores, a school and library, a barbershop, bakeries, even a hotel!

The town grew and then water became an issue...since it was not a popular idea that Blacks be successful, obstacles were often made to curtail the progress. Colonel Allensworth knew it was going to be a fight for legislative approval to remove barriers associated with progress. On September 14, 1908...Allensworth was killed after being struck by a motorcycle on the streets of LA. There were rumors it was done on purpose...unfortunately, this was the beginning of the end for the town of Allensworth. After struggles with water rights, Homestead laws which were unfair and voting rights, the town became stagnant and unable to grow. People eventually moved away and the town started to decline….

Current day...the settlement of Allensworth is now a historic park, with a rich history of hope, perseverance, courage and stamina. Kat, after hearing from several visitors that they experienced strange things such as footsteps, laughter, shadows of the past and actual apparitions...contacted State Park representatives and obtained permission to have her group start investigating.

PGS are trained docents of Allensworth SHP and have experienced many paranormal events. Much of the events are recorded...voices, singing, sounds of furniture being moved around, people doing the things they do normally. Come visit this marvelous place, and join PGS on a spirit tour when you can.