The National Park Service is changing its visitor center hours at Nicodemus National Historic Site.

The visitor center will be closed on all Sundays and federal holidays beginning this Sunday, October 6. The visitor center will be open Monday through Saturday from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM and will continue to offer the park film, tours, and interpretive programs.

According to Phyllis Howard, National Park Service Ranger,  “this closure will maximize the use of our anticipated funding levels to reach a greater number of visitors and enhance visitor experience through special programs and events as well as educational programs.  The park hopes to expand its educational outreach in the coming fiscal year to get more local schools to the park, as well as virtually through distance education.”

The town of Nicodemus is symbolic of the pioneer spirit of African Americans.

They dared to leave the only region they had been familiar with to seek personal freedom and the opportunity to develop their talents and capabilities.

Nicodemus NHS represents the western expansion and settlement of the Great Plains, and includes five buildings: The First Baptist Church, St. Francis Hotel, Nicodemus School District Number One, African Episcopal Church, and Township Hall.