Why Live in Tennessee Town
Tennessee Town, a historic African-American neighborhood in Topeka, is located about a mile from downtown. Established by freed slaves from Tennessee after the Civil War, it retains a rich cultural heritage and diverse community. The neighborhood features nearly 200 homes, primarily American Foursquares, two-story cottages, and Craftsman-style bungalows, many built in the early 1900s. These homes, often with wide front porches, range from 700 to 2,500 square feet. Community revitalization efforts are supported by the Topeka Housing Authority and non-profits like Habitat for Humanity. Kings Court Park offers basketball courts and a playground, while Gage Park, 2 miles west, includes a zoo, a century-old carousel, and the Kansas Children’s Discovery Center. The Aaron Douglas Art Park hosts an annual art fair, celebrating the Harlem Renaissance artist. Local dining options include Mexican Taco Shop and Bobo’s Drive In, featured on the Food Network. The neighborhood is safer than the national average, and residents can easily access downtown via a short drive or bus ride. Nearby schools include Lowman Hill Elementary, Robinson Middle School, and Topeka High, known for its Gothic-style architecture. Major medical facilities like Stormont Vail Hospital and the University of Kansas Health System's St. Francis Campus are conveniently close. For air travel, Kansas City International Airport is the nearest option.