In a time when segregation shaped the landscapes of Missouri communities, Randolph County’s parks stood as silent witnesses to an era of division and resilience. Our Parks and Recreation Collection of Newspaper Articles brings to light the historical accounts of what were known as “Negro Parks”—areas specifically designated to separate the so-called “white” community from the so-called “Black” community.

These parks, often marginalized in historical narratives, served as vital spaces for recreation, socialization, and community building for the Indigenous “Black” residents of Randolph County. Despite their significance, many of these parks have been lost to time, their stories buried beneath layers of history.

Our collection includes newspaper clippings and articles that meticulously document the existence and evolution of these parks. Each piece offers a glimpse into the past, revealing the efforts of a community determined to carve out spaces of joy and togetherness in the face of systemic exclusion.

The purpose of our collection is not merely to archive but to revive. By unearthing these hidden historical details, we aim to acknowledge the experiences and contributions of Indigenous communities in Randolph County. Through these recovered stories, we honor the legacy of those who found ways to create and maintain communal havens, even within the confines of segregation.

As you explore this collection, you will encounter narratives of struggle, triumph, and the everyday lives of those who frequented these parks. These articles, preserved thanks to the efforts of The State Historical Society of Missouri, provide invaluable insights into a chapter of our history that deserves recognition and reflection.

In bringing these forgotten parks back into the light, we hope to foster a deeper understanding of our shared past and inspire a commitment to preserving the stories that shape our collective identity.

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This narrative, detailing the mission and significance of our Parks and Recreation Collection of Newspaper Articles, highlights the importance of remembering and honoring the historical “Negro Parks” of Randolph County. The collection, made available courtesy of The State Historical Society of Missouri, serves as a bridge to a once-hidden past, ensuring that the legacies of these communities are never forgotten.