The Buffalo Soldier

February is Black History month in the U.S., where we celebrate and remember the past and present achievements of African-Americans.

In 1866, to help rebuild the country after the Civil War, the United States Congress established the first peacetime all-black regiment in the U.S. Army to help patrol the western frontier. About 6,000 African Americans were recruited into six regiments: 9th and 10th Cavalry and the 38th, 39th, 40th, and 41st Infantry Regiments. The last four were later merged into the 24th and 25th infantry.

According to some stories, the name “Buffalo Soldier” was given to the cavalry men by the Native Americans tribes they fought because of their resemblance to the dark, curly-haired buffalo that roamed the plains. In total, 23 Buffalo Soldiers received the Medal of Honor during the Indian Wars. Did you know they were also among the first national park rangers in the Sierra Nevada?

We remember these soldiers not only for their bravery in combat, but also for their enduring commitment and honor to stand in service to the United States despite facing discrimination and segregation.

Today, over 400 Buffalo Soldiers are buried at the San Francisco National Cemetery in the Presido.

Have you seen the Buffalo Soldier project on Geni?

The purpose of this project is to research the black soldiers who served in the U.S. Army in the 1860’s, to create their Geni profiles, and to follow their families forward to today. This project will focus on the soldiers of the 9th & 10th Cavalry and of the 24th & 25th Infantry Regiments.

Join the Buffalo Soldiers project and help connect these brave soldiers to Geni’s World Family Tree.

View the Buffalo Soldier Project