Black History Regional Facts
Colorado Springs founder General William Jackson Palmer was one impetus for Black Americans moving to the area.
After the Civil War ended in 1865, Palmer – a former Union Army general – decreed that all children regardless of color would attend school together. Black families headed west with the promise of a more successful future for their children. [Source: Pikes Peak Library District]
Fannie Mae Duncan made a huge impact on the city during the Civil Rights Movement.
Duncan, a Black woman and business owner, made incredible progress in Colorado Springs during one of the country’s most volatile times. While the rest of the country was deep in Jim Crow laws, Colorado Springs was comparatively progressive. Duncan was granted a loan to start her business. Her jazz venue, the Cotton Club, became famously known for its phrase “Everybody Welcome.” Located next to where the Pikes Peak Center is today, the club welcomed famous acts including Louis Armstrong, Count Basie, Billie Holiday, Duke Ellington and Etta James. [Source: Rocky Mountain Food Tours]
Tuskegee Airman and decorated Air Force fighter pilot James Randall was a beloved resident of Colorado Springs.
Randall flew 75 combat missions in Korea, and in Vietnam was part of Operation Rolling Thunder. In 1965, he was shot down while flying his 44th mission to destroy a bridge near the border. Despite injuries, he avoided capture and radioed for help. After healing, he retired to Colorado Springs. Col. Randall’s recognitions include the Congressional Gold Medal, Legion of Merit, Purple Heart, Distinguished Flying Cross, Bronze Star Medal and Meritorious Service Medal. [Source: The Gazette]
The Carter Payne was once an African church built on land donated by General William Jackson Palmer.
The Carter Payne – now home to several local businesses like Local Relic, Immerse Cuisine and The Cellar – was built in 1897 as an African Methodist Episcopal (AME) church. The congregation once based in The Carter Payne Chapel has since moved to another location, but the historic building serves as an important piece of the city’s history. [Source: El Pomar Foundation]
Ron Stallworth, the first Black detective in the Colorado Springs Police Department, infiltrated the Ku Klux Klan.
A young detective passionate about undercover work, Ron Stallworth was able to convince the Ku Klux Klan he was a prospective member despite being a Black man. Through months of phone calls and undercover meetings, Stallworth had become a card-carrying member. During operation he was able to gather critical information which likely prevented harm to many Colorado Springs minorities at the hands of the KKK. Stallworth wrote a memoir titled BlacKKKlansman, which was adapted into an Academy Award-winning film by Spike Lee. [Source: Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum]
