Today in 1879: The first group of black so-called ‘exodusters,’ en route to Kansas, arrives in St. Louis aboard a steamer.

Eager to escape harsh sharecropper contracts, imprisonment and murder, thousands of African Americans are looking to Kansas as the Promised Land. Many will pour onto steamboats nearly destitute and knowing nothing about the state.

Later this year, “Singleton Colony” will be established near what will become Emporia, Kansas. But a steamboat strike will slow the migration and, by 1881, the flood of “exodusters” will reduce to a trickle.

It’s Today’s Action Calendar!

Volunteer Income Tax Assistance for individuals is available at Madison Central Library, 201 West Mifflin. This is by appointment, 9am to 1pm on Saturdays through April 5th. RSVP by calling 608-266-6350.

Help Middleton Outreach Ministry end hunger in our community. Teams are needed to compete in the fourth annual Canstruction Madison, by building structures out of canned and packaged food. The event will be held at KEVA Sports Center on May 1st, and team registration is happening now! For more info, call Elaine 826-3414, or visit canstructionmadison.org.

Absolutely Art and Café Zoma host a free artist reception on Friday, featuring Timothy Kobs and Daniel Miller. There will be catering by Bunky’s Cafe & live music. This is Friday from 5 to 9pm at 2322 Atwood Avenue. Call 608-249-9100 for more info.