Buffalo Soldiers, Alexander/Madison Chapter of the Kansas City Area

Buffalo Soldiers, Alexander/Madison Chapter of the Kansas City Area

“Buffalo Soldiers: From Slave to Soldier

In 1867 Isaac Johnson arrived at Jefferson Barracks near St. Louis, Missouri. An unknown, illiterate hotel worker and former slave from Montgomery, Alabama, he was to become an original Buffalo Soldier, destined to change the course of American history and the world. This slight man, just 5 feet and 7¼ inches tall, served in the 38th and 24th Colored Infantry and the famed 9th Cavalry. The presentations may include not only Johnson but also Cathay Williams, a female Buffalo Soldier; the creation of the Tuskegee Airman; the participation of African American soldiers alongside the Rough Riders in the charge up San Juan Hill during the Spanish-American War, and countless battles up to the issue of Executive Order 9981 by President Harry Truman ending military segregation on July 26, 1948.

About the Speaker

Two decorated army veterans and Buffalo Soldiers cofounded what is today the 9th & 10th (Horse) Cavalry Association on July 28, 1966. This national organization was formed in the historic 18th and Vine Jazz District in Kansas City. Today, after 52 years, it is the oldest such chapter in the nation and is headed by its second President, John Bruce, a veteran and a recipient of the Bronze Star for Valor. Bruce is joined by two other presenters, one a veteran and great-grandson of an original Buffalo Soldier and one the daughter of the co-founder of the national organization.”

George Pettigrew
Executive Vice President/Historian Alexander/Madison Chapter of KC
Certified Oral Storyteller

Comments 9

  1. We would like to have George come speak to our associates next month. Can you call me 816-298-4085.
    Dr. Andrea Hendricks

  2. I am looking for a list of men who served in the military that were from Missouri or served in Missouri. I work for Missouri State Parks and we are revamping a booklet on African American Missourians and would like some guidance if possible. Could someone contact me? Thank you in advance.

  3. i met you all a few months ago through Charles Conner My great grand father is an original buffalo soldier I have the photos to prove it

  4. My name is Melanie Summers and I am doing some genealogy research. Apparently, we have a Buffalo Soldier in the family by the last name Bailey. Can you help with any information on this person. Unfortunately all I know is the last name. He was from Mecca, Missouri. He lived on Wabash Ave in Kansas City, Missouri.

    My email address is melaniesummers16@gmail.com.

    Thank you in advance.

    Melanie Summers

  5. I have a couple of saddles I would like to donate and wondered if your organization would be interested in. Please let me know.

  6. I am looking for my great grandfather, he was a buffalo soldier. He was stationed in Ft Davis Tx he married Ermelina or Ermelina Jimenez.

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