Are you looking to catch up on some of your African American history, stop by and check out the Buffalo Soldiers National Museum.
The Buffalo Soldiers National Museum (BSNM), a non-profit 501(c)(3) institution, was founded in 2001 by Vietnam veteran, Captain Paul J. Matthews. Major Charles Williams, United States Army Retired, serves as the Museum's Chief Docent. BSNM is the only museum dedicated primarily to preserving the legacy and honor of the African-American soldier in defense of the United States of America from the Revolutionary War to present. The Buffalo Soldiers National Museum is a proud member of the Houston Museum District and the Midtown Cultural Arts District. The museum is also a proud member of the Greater Houston Conventions and Visitors Bureau, Greater Houston Partnership and the Better Business Bureau.
The Beginning
African Americans have served proudly in every great American war. In 1866, through an act of Congress, legislation was adopted to create six all African American Army units. The units were identified as the 9th and 10th cavalry and the 38th, 39th, 40th, and 41st infantry regiments. The four infantry regiments were later reorganized to form the 24th and 25th infantry regiments.
These fighting men represented the first Black professional soldiers in a peacetime army. The recruits came from varied backgrounds including former slaves and veterans from service in the Civil War.
The Nickname
It is espoused by some historians that the nickname buffalo soldiers began with the Cheyenne warriors in 1867. The actual Cheyenne translation was Wild Buffalo. The nickname was given out of respect and the fierce fighting ability of the 10th cavalry. Overtime, Buffalo Soldiers became a generic term for all African American soldiers.
Mission Statement: The mission of the Buffalo Soldiers National Museum (BSNM) is to educate the public and to preserve, promote and perpetuate the history, tradition and outstanding contributions of America's Buffalo Soldiers from the Revolutionary War to the present.
BSNM achieves its mission through its educational programs, historic research, the arts, the environment, school tours, performing arts, teacher workshops; youth outreach programs, school appearances, and exhibits. The museum creates and disseminates knowledge about the history of the Buffalo Soldiers and their service in the defense and development of America.
Owner: Paul Matthews
Location: 3816 Caroline St, Houston, TX
Contact: 713.942.8920
Social Media: IG: @Buffalosoldiermuseum
Website: http://buffalosoldiermuseum.com
Key Words: History Museum
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