FOUNDER

Angela Bates is the organizer and founder of the Nicodemus Historical Society. She has achieved the vision of a community organization that would collect, preserve, and interpret the history of Nicodemus in collections including historic photos, documents, and objects. Since 1988 when she first envisioned the organization, she was handed the preservation baton from her great cousin and former NFL football player Veryl Switzer. In 1996 her efforts to get Nicodemus designated a unit of the National Park Service were finally achieved. After 30 years of hard work, she continues to pursue efforts that contribute to her legacy as an honored steward of her hometown Nicodemus.

Executive Director

Ms. Pearson brings to the position extensive experience as a museum curator, community development specialist, manager, public speaker, and presenter and advocate for African American history. She is currently employed as a curator at the Kansas Historical Society.

President

Ashley Adams, Ph.D. is a Nicodemus descendant and has served as the Nicodemus Historical Society Board Secretary since January 2017.

Assistant Adjunct Professor of Public Policy at Mills College, in Oakland, California.

Board Secretary

Treasurer

Kathy Atkisson has been an active member of both the Nicodemus Historical Society and the Nicodemus Emancipation Homecoming Celebration since 2012. Her and her husband also serve on the Kansas Fair Board.

President Emeritus

2001 thru 2020