Blackdom, New Mexico facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Blackdom, New Mexico
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 Blackdom, New Mexico
Location in New Mexico
Blackdom, New Mexico
Location in the United States
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| Country | United States |
| State | New Mexico |
| County | Chaves |
| Area | |
| • Total | 24 sq mi (61 km2) |
| Elevation | 3,638 ft (1,109 m) |
| Population
(1908)
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| • Total | 300 |
| • Density | 12.7/sq mi (4.9/km2) |
| Time zone | UTC-7 (Mountain (MST)) |
| • Summer (DST) | UTC-6 (MDT) |
Blackdom was a special town in Chaves County, New Mexico. It was founded in 1901 by African-American settlers. At its busiest in 1908, about 300 people lived there. The town was created so that African Americans could build a community of their own. Sadly, Blackdom became a ghost town by the mid-1920s. This happened because of a big drought.
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History of Blackdom
The idea for Blackdom came from Frank Boyer. His father, Henry Boyer, was a freedman (a person freed from slavery). Henry had traveled to New Mexico during the Mexican–American War in 1846. Frank grew up hearing his father's stories about New Mexico.
Founding the Community
Frank Boyer went to college and learned about the Homestead Act. This law allowed people to claim land if they lived on it and improved it. Frank became a teacher in Georgia. He married Ella Louise Boyer, who was also a teacher. Frank encouraged African Americans to speak up against unfair rules in the South. These rules were known as Jim Crow laws.
Because of the dangers he faced, Frank's father told him to move West. In 1896, Frank traveled to New Mexico on foot. He wanted to create a community where African Americans could live freely. Ella and their four children joined him in 1901.
Growth and Challenges
The community of Blackdom started in 1901. It grew around Frank and Ella Boyer's home. Frank advertised for African-American homesteaders in newspapers. By 1908, Blackdom had 25 families and about 300 people. It also had businesses like a blacksmith shop and a hotel. There was even a weekly newspaper and a Baptist church. The town covered about 15,000 acres (61 square kilometers).
W.T. Malone, the first African American to pass the New Mexico Bar exam, was an early settler. Blackdom was the first community in the New Mexico Territory made only for African Americans.
Decline of Blackdom
In 1916, Blackdom faced many problems. Worms ruined many crops. The soil became too salty. Also, the natural wells that supplied water dried up. Because of these issues, settlers started to leave. They moved to nearby towns like Roswell and Las Cruces.
In 1921, the Boyer family lost their home. They moved to Vado. Blackdom was officially recognized as a town in 1921. But by then, most people had already left because of the water problems. Today, there are no buildings left in Blackdom. Only a small concrete foundation of the schoolhouse can barely be seen. The Blackdom Baptist Church building was moved in the 1920s. It is now a private home in Cottonwood.
Celebrations in Blackdom
Blackdom was known for its Juneteenth celebrations. Many white ranchers from the area were invited. They would join the community for a big festival and a baseball game.
Geography of Blackdom
The site of Blackdom is about eight miles (13 km) west of Dexter. It is also 18 miles (29 km) south of Roswell. The land is about 3,638 feet (1,109 meters) above sea level.
Blackdom's Legacy Today
Blackdom is remembered as an important part of New Mexico's history. On October 26, 2002, the governor of New Mexico declared it Blackdom Day. A historical marker was put up on Highway 285. This marker is between Roswell and Artesia. Former residents and their descendants attended the ceremony.
In 2022, an art exhibition at New Mexico State University honored Blackdom. It featured music and dance performances. These performances were inspired by the early days of Blackdom.
