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A look at the legacy of Dallas' Freedmen's towns

KERA's Recovering the Stories video series chronicles historic communities of color across Dallas, taking a closer look at how subjects like police brutality and gentrification have disproportionately affected these neighborhoods.

Following emancipation, Dallas' Freedmen's Town — also known as State Thomas — was composed of a tight-knit, resilient community that thrived in the face of adversity. This area was one of the largest and most successful Freedmen's towns established in Dallas.

In this video, hear from descendants of those who helped create this rich legacy, and discover how they turned hardship into hope by building schools, businesses, and a lively social scene.

From the historic Millermore Plantation House to the sprawling Freedmen's Cemetery, this episode explores the lasting impact of these communities on the city of Dallas and shares the stories of those who fought for their place in history.

RELATED | New documentary honors the legacy of a North Dallas freedman town pioneer