Updated: February 6, 2026
Learn about Black history in the Pikes Peak Region and continue to support Black-owned businesses. We love our community and these wonderful people who make Colorado Springs such an amazing place.
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]
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]
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 – 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]
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]
The CSPM is hosting guided tours on select days for Black History Month.
Explore how since the founding of Colorado Springs in 1871, African Americans have continued to socially, politically, intellectually, culturally and economically shape the Pikes Peak Region.
The AAHGSCS’s mission is to ensure African-Americans are included as an integral part of the history of the Pikes Peak Region and our nation. Visit the museum to learn about the region’s rich African-American history.
The History Colorado app explores the people and stories that have helped shape the state with particular focus on traditionally underserved communities. Starting with History Colorado’s Black Heritage Trail, users can delve into the history and impact of African Americans in Colorado via audio stops, images, text descriptions from History Colorado’s extensive collection and more.
While Black History Month in February serves as an annual reminder, it’s vital to our region’s success to support Black-owned businesses every month. Here are several resources to leverage to find new businesses to support.
The Southern Colorado Juneteenth Festival is one of the largest celebrations of inclusion ever to be held in Colorado Springs.
Attractions
Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum215 S Tejon St
Colorado Springs, Colorado 80903
Attractions
Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center at Colorado College30 W Dale St
Colorado Springs, Colorado 80903
Attractions
Space Foundation Discovery Center4425 Arrowswest Dr
Colorado Springs, Colorado 80907
Attractions
United States Air Force AcademyI-25 Exit 156
USAF Academy, Colorado 80840
Attractions
National Museum of WWII Aviation775 Aviation Way
Colorado Springs, Colorado 80916
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