Historic black town in 'huge peril'

DENVER, Sept. 17 (UPI) -- Volunteers are trying to save Dearfield, Colo., settled by blacks who hoped to become western farmers and abandoned 35 years ago.

Supporters of the effort say Dearfield is important not only to black history but the nation's history, as well, The Denver Post reported Tuesday.

"For many, this was their last chance to own something, to live the American Dream," said La Wanna Larson, curator of the Black American West Museum in Denver.

Dearfield, 30 miles west of Greeley, was founded in 1910 by Oliver Toussaint "O.T." Jackson, a follower of Booker T. Washington's philosophy of self-determination. The town grew to have 700 residents but fell on hard times during the Dust Bowl years of the 1930s.

Jenny Jackson, the founder's niece, remained in Dearfield until 1973.

Only three structures remain in the town, which has been designated a historic site. Volunteers are trying to protect them.

"This town is in huge peril, Larson said. "It will not survive another winter."