The Aborigines of North America
Randolph Negro Parks
Randolph Negro Parks is a dedicated platform focused on exploring parks that were designated and operational during the early to mid-1900s. Our objective is to collect and share overlooked information, establishing a hub for researching these parks that have been omitted from American history. Join us as we strive to uncover and preserve the stories of these significant spaces, contributing to a more comprehensive understanding of our shared past.
Embarking on genealogy research in Moberly unearthed the intriguing history of a bygone park, Douglas Park, also known as the “negro park”. Despite dedicated efforts over the past months to uncover details about this once-thriving park, the available information remains limited. The task now falls on the descendants of Moberly to come together and compile this vital information for the benefit of future generations.
In our pursuit, we engaged with a knowledgeable, elderly individual who holds a prominent role at the Moberly Historical Society Center in Moberly. A native of Moberly, he initially hesitated to acknowledge the existence of the park, perhaps due to the passage of time dimming his recollections. However, upon presenting him with pertinent articles, he could recall the park, though uncertain of its fate. He shared insights into the era of segregation, emphasizing the different times he experienced.
Through extensive research and conversations with the seasoned resident, it has become evident that aspects of our Ancestors’ presence and history were deliberately erased or omitted from Moberly’s historical narrative. The time has come for us, the descendants of so-called “Black” Ancestors of Moberly, to meticulously gather as much information as possible and reintegrate it into our historical records and narratives. We extend an open call to anyone possessing insights into Douglas Park or “Negro Park” of Moberly to reach out to us or submit relevant documents and photos.
An article from 1933, titled “Negro Democrats Plan Picnic,” sheds light on the historical significance of the park. The Randolph County Negro Democratic Club organized a picnic to inaugurate a new park named “Douglas Park,” located west of Moberly. Key sponsors included W.R. Johnson, H. H. Timmons, and G.C. Collins, members of the executive board. The event featured refreshments, including barbecued meats. Notably, the article pointed out that “No member of the club has received a state job.” (Moberly Monitor-Index and Moberly Evening Democrat, Moberly, Missouri, Tue, Jul 18, 1933, Page 3)
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Calling all relatives and descendants of Cairo, Chariton, Clark, Clifton Hill, Higbee, Huntsville, Jacksonville, Moberly (Magic City), Moniteau, Prairie, Renick, Roanoke, Salt River, Union, Sugar Creek, Glasgow, Thomas Hill, Missouri.
We’re on a mission to collect and preserve legitimate vital records and vintage photos from the 17th to the 1920s. Your family’s history is an integral part of our community’s legacy. Help us ensure it’s not forgotten.
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