The Blackwell School is a National Historic Site located in Marfa, Texas. It was built in 1909 and served as a school for African American children during the time of segregation. The school was established by the local African American community, who fundraised and worked together to provide education for their children.
Blackwell School played a crucial role in education for African American students in west Texas. It provided the opportunity for them to receive an education in a time when schools were racially segregated. The school operated until 1965, when desegregation was mandated and it closed its doors.
Today, the Blackwell School is open for visitors to explore and learn about the history of African American education in Texas. It showcases exhibits that highlight the harsh realities of segregation and the perseverance of the local community to provide education to their children.
In addition to exploring the historic school building, visitors can watch educational films about the school's history and its impact on the local community. The site also hosts various events and programs throughout the year, including cultural exhibitions and presentations.
For those interested in exploring more attractions nearby, the Blackwell School is conveniently located in Marfa, a town known for its arts and culture scene. Visitors can take a stroll through the town to admire the unique artwork and galleries, or enjoy a delicious meal at one of the local restaurants.
Additionally, the famous Marfa Lights can be observed just outside the town. These mysterious lights have intrigued visitors for years, with various theories about their origin. Many people come to Marfa specifically to witness this natural phenomenon and experience the enchantment of the desert landscape.
Overall, the Blackwell School National Historic Site offers visitors a glimpse into the important role it played in African American education during the era of segregation. With its informative exhibits and proximity to other attractions, it provides a valuable opportunity to learn about the history of racial segregation and the resilience of an African American community in Texas.
The Blackwell School National Historic Site is nestled within the picturesque state of Texas, in the charming town of Marfa. Located in the southwest region of the state, Marfa lies within the vast and sprawling landscape of the high desert. Surrounded by breathtaking mountains and vast plains, this historic site is nestled in an idyllic location. The town itself is known for its vibrant arts scene and its unique mix of cultural influences. With its remote and serene location, Blackwell School National Historic Site offers visitors an opportunity to immerse themselves in the beauty of the Texas desert while engaging with the rich history of the area.
501 South Abbott StreetMarfa, TX 79843Driving DirectionsPhone: NULLWeb: Link
The best time to visit Blackwell School National Historic Site would be in April or May. During this time, the average maximum temperature ranges from 79°F to 85°F, and the average minimum temperature ranges from 51°F to 58°F. The average monthly precipitation is relatively low, ranging from 0.4 in. to 1.1 in. This timeframe offers pleasant weather for outdoor activities and exploration.
Learn about these topics at Blackwell School National Historic Site: Schools and Education Social Movements Civil Rights Hispanic American Heritage Latino American Heritage
This is a primitive campground, containing nine campsites. No water. Vault toilets are available. Pink Jeep can be accessed by off-road vehicle, hiking or biking. Backcountry permits are required for all, off-road vehicle permits are required for off-road vehicles.
The following locations have passport stamps for your "Passport to Your National Parks" booklet: Pink Jeep.
This park doesn't have any campsites within its boundaries (or we haven't found them yet)).
Located in Alpine, Hampton Inn Alpine is within a 5-minute drive of Kiowa Gallery and Big Bend Regional Medical Center. Featured amenities include complimentary wired Internet access, a business center, and express check-out. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 2607 W Highway 90, Alpine, Texas 79830
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With a stay at Holiday Inn Express & Suites Alpine Southeast, an IHG Hotel in Alpine, you'll be within a 5-minute drive of Big Bend Regional Medical Center and Kiowa Gallery. Featured amenities include a business center, a 24-hour front desk, and multilingual staff. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 2004 E Hwy 90, Alpine, Texas 79830
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Located in Fort Davis, Fort Davis Inn & R.V. Park is within a 5-minute drive of Davis Mountains State Park and Overland Trail Museum. Featured amenities include complimentary newspapers in the lobby, a 24-hour front desk, and laundry facilities. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 2201 N State St, Fort Davis, Texas 79734
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Located in Fort Davis, Davis Mountains Inn is within a 5-minute drive of Overland Trail Museum and Fort Davis National Historic Site. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 43417 State Hwy 17, 1/2 Mile South Hwy 17, Fort Davis, Texas 79734
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With a stay at Americas Best Value Inn Alpine in Alpine, you'll be within a 5-minute drive of Sul Ross State University and Big Bend Regional Medical Center. Featured amenities include complimentary newspapers in the lobby, a 24-hour front desk, and multilingual staff. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 2010 Hwy 90 East, Alpine, Texas 79830
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Located in Fort Davis, Fort Davis Drug Store and Hotel is within a 5-minute drive of Overland Trail Museum and Fort Davis National Historic Site.
Address: 113 State Street, Fort Davis, Texas 79734
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Located in Fort Davis, South Gate Lodges is in a state park, within a 5-minute drive of Overland Trail Museum and Fort Davis National Historic Site. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: State Hwy 118, Fort Davis, Texas 79734
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Located in Alpine, OYO Hotel Alpine TX near University is within a 15-minute walk of Kiowa Gallery and Murphy St. Raspa Co.. Featured amenities include a 24-hour front desk and luggage storage. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 809 E Holland Ave, Alpine, Texas 79830
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When you stay at this vacation home in Alpine, you'll be in the mountains, within a 15-minute walk of Kiowa Gallery and Murphy St. Raspa Co.. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 801 East Avenue E, Alpine, Texas 79830
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With a stay at Alpine Bed and Breakfast in Alpine, you'll be 17.4 mi (27.9 km) from Marfa Lights Viewing Center and 19.5 mi (31.3 km) from Chihuahuan Desert Nature Center and Botanical Garden. Featured amenities include express check-out, complimentary newspapers in the lobby, and luggage storage. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 403 N 8th St, Alpine, Texas 79830
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| Date issued | Details |
|---|---|
| 2024-07-17 | Biden-Harris Administration Establishes Blackwell School National Historic Site as America’s Newest National Park Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland today formally established Blackwell School National Historic Site in Texas as the nation’s newest national park. The park is the seventh national park unit designated under President Biden. Recent additions include the designation of Amache National Historic Site in Colorado, the Emmett Till and Mamie Till-Mobley National Monument in Illinois and Mississippi, and Brown v. Board of Education National Historical Park in Kansas More |
| 2024-05-28 | Blackwell School National Historic Site invites public input on the development of its foundation document The National Park Service (NPS) is preparing a foundation document to guide future planning and management of Blackwell School National Historic Site and is seeking public comment on its development. The public engagement period will take place from May 28 to July 12, 2024, and will include opportunities to submit written comments and participate in public meetings. More |