Book a Trip

  • One-Way
  • Round-Trip
  • Multi-City
  • Multi-Ride
Return trip details

Celebrating Black History Month

https://amtraksanjoaquins.com/wp-content/uploads/AdobeStock_408429896-Converted.jpg

In 1926, American historian Carter Woodson established Black History Week to commemorate and celebrate the contributions made by people of African descent. In 1976, the celebration was expanded into a month-long commemoration to recognize the history, achievements, culture, and influences of the Black community. Today, we continue to pay tribute and honor all the Black men and women that played a significant role in the conservation of Black representation, identity, and diversity in our nation. 

 

Individuals and organizations can celebrate Black History Month by reflecting on the 400 years of Black history and heritage, supporting Black-owned businesses, and visiting historic sites. 

In Tulare County, about 30 miles north of Bakersfield, there is a historic town that was founded in 1908 by five settlers, led by Colonel Allen Allensworth. The town, Allensworth, was founded, financed, and governed solely by African Americans with the goal of achieving the American Dream. By 1918, Allensworth was home to several hundreds African Americans. By 1966, Allensworth was no longer home to residents. However, in 1974, in order to preserve the rich heritage of the site, the California State Parks purchased the land and established the Colonel Allensworth State Historic Park. Today, a collection of restored and reconstructed 20th century buildings are available for visitors to explore and see what Allenworth looked like in the 1900s. 

The Friends of Allensworth, a nonprofit association who's mission is to support the historic park's educational and interpretive work, offers resources to learn more about Colonel Allensworth State Historic Park and on-site tours. The Friends of Allensworth have four major annual events where Amtrak San Joaquins offers special services to riders where they can travel to Allensworth conveniently by train. In honor of this year's Black History Month, Friends of Allensworth will be hosting a virtual celebration on February 20, 2021 at 11:00 AM on their Facebook page: @Friendsofallensworthofficial. For the 2021 year, Amtrak San Joaquins is unable to provide services to Allensworth due to scheduling restrictions and the park limiting visitors. 

Friends of Allensworth Events at Colonel Allensworth State Historic Park 

 

Black History Month Celebration, second Saturday in February 

 

Old Time Jubilee, third Saturday in May

 

Juneteenth Celebration, second Saturday in June

 

Annual Re-dedication, second Saturday in October 

 

recent blog posts

San Francisco Thruway Bus Stop Moves to a New Location January 1, 2024.

Attention Amtrak San Joaquins CustomersThe San Francisco, CA, Thruway Bus stop that was located at 555 Mission Street next to the sales force plaza has relocated to:301 Mission Street,San Francisco, CA 94105Map with directions from the old stop to the new location can be found here Schedule information and reservations are available by visiting AmtrakSanJoaquins.com, …

San Francisco Thruway Bus Stop Moves to a New Location January 1, 2024. Read More »

View More
Kick Off the Holiday Season in Martinez

        Amtrak San Joaquins is excited to partner with Downtown Martinez for the Holiday Sparkle Sip and Shop on November 25!   This annual event, taking place Saturday from 1PM – 4PM, gives residents and visitors the chance to stroll downtown Martinez, choosing from over 25 wines to sip from while shopping …

Kick Off the Holiday Season in Martinez Read More »

View More
San Francisco Bus Stop Temporary Relocation (Updated)

Effective Wednesday, November 15, 2023, Thruway bus service to San Francisco will return to its normal pick-up/drop-off location at 555 Mission Street.  

View More