Collection: Black Sabers: The Legacy of the Buffalo Soldiers

Come close and honor the story of the Buffalo Soldiers: the Black sabers of American military history. Born in 1866, just after the Civil War, these brave men of the 9th and 10th Cavalry and the 24th and 25th Infantry were some of the first Black soldiers to serve in the U.S. Army during peacetime. Named “Buffalo Soldiers” by Native American warriors (a title of respect for their strength and spirit) they battled through rugged terrain, hostile territories, and the deep racism of their own government. They fought in the Indian Wars, protected westward-bound settlers, built roads, and brought law to the lawless. Later, they served with unmatched bravery in the Spanish-American War, the Philippine-American War, and even on into World War I and II.

Despite being denied full rights, dignity, and even proper military honors, these men earned over 20 Medals of Honor, a testament to their valor and excellence. Their legacy stretched nearly a century, with Buffalo Soldier units active until the military’s desegregation in 1951. They were not just soldiers: they were trailblazers, educators, and community builders, defending a nation that refused to defend them. Still, they stood tall, with steel in their spines and fire in their hearts. This exhibit is not just about war: it’s about resistance, discipline, and the enduring legacy of Black men who turned every battlefield into a declaration of dignity.