Baldwin City, Douglas County acquire historically significant Black Jack Battlefield and Nature Park

Baldwin City and Douglas County have acquired Black Jack Battlefield and Nature Park, a nationally significant site tied to the events of “Bleeding Kansas” and widely recognized as a precursor to the Civil War.

The 38-acre property, located at 163 E. 2000th Road near Baldwin City, includes the historic Robert Hall Pearson farmhouse, nature trails, Captain’s Creek, restored prairie, picnic areas and sugar maple grove. The park is open daily from dawn to dusk.

Annually, about 3,000 people visit the park’s natural features as well as attend programming such as reenactments and tours. Black Jack Battlefield was designated a National Historic Landmark in 2012. It is one of three National Historic Landmark sites in Douglas County and one of only 26 in Kansas.

The park is located next to the Ivan Boyd Prairie Preserve, which is owned by Douglas County and maintained by the Santa Fe Trail Historical Society of Douglas County.

On Nov. 26, Baldwin City and Douglas County signed a joint ownership agreement to ensure long-term preservation and management of the property. The site was previously owned and operated by the Black Jack Battlefield Trust, a nonprofit organization.

Deputy Douglas County Administrator Sean Pederson said the partnership reflects a commitment to both history and community.

“This agreement helps protect an important piece of our shared history while keeping this land open and accessible for the community. By working together, we’re making sure this special place is preserved, cared for and enjoyed by residents and visitors for years to come,” Pederson said.

Under the agreement, Baldwin City and Douglas County will jointly appoint an advisory board with equal representation from both entities. The board will guide park development, maintenance, capital projects, programming and public use, signage, marketing and strategic planning. Officials expect the board to be in place by spring 2026.