Buffalo Soldier

This statue is to commemorate the “Buffalo Soldier”, in 1866 after the American civil war was fought legislation was adopted to create six all African American army units. The 9th and 10th Cavalry were stationed at Fort Huachuca. Their main charge was to protect settlers as they moved west and support the westward expansion by building infrastructure needed for new settlements to flourish. The name “Buffalo Soldier” has an interesting lore, there are three possible reasons for the name. One, it is said that the American Indians called them this because of their curly hair reminding them of Buffalo. Two, they were given the name because of how fierce and brave their nature was and reminded them of the Buffalo. Three, it may have been that they wore thick buffalo hides during the winter. Whatever the reason, the term was used respectfully and with honor.

In the background you can see some of the original buildings that were used when Fort Huachuca was no long a camp but became a fort. Also you can see Huachuca mountain range behind the statue. This is some of the history of Ft Huachuca and the Buffalo Soldier.