Presentation: The Legacy of Arizona's Buffalo Soldiers

February 11, 2025

Event Date(s): 
Tuesday, February 11, 2025 - 12:30pm to 1:30pm
Event Location: 
Southern & Dobson, AS 191
Event Format: 
In-Person
Intended Audience: 
Everyone
Event Contact
Dr. Tawn Hauptli, tawn.hauptli@mesacc.edu
Event Short Link

Join Commander Fred Marable, Founder, President, & CEO, and Deputy Commander Michelle London-Marable, Co-Founder & Director, as they share the powerful and complex story of the Buffalo Soldiers in the Arizona Territory.

From the late 1800s to the early 1900s, the Buffalo Soldiers comprising the 9th, 10th, 24th, and 25th U.S. Military regiments played a pivotal role in shaping Arizona's history and paving the way for its statehood. Acting as postmen, park rangers, police officers, and armed forces, they protected settlers, built infrastructure, and guarded the U.S./Mexico border. Fort Huachuca, a cornerstone of Buffalo Soldier history, hosted every regiment, starting in 1892.

Learn about prominent figures like Henry Flipper, the first African American graduate of West Point, and Charles Young, a trailblazing officer, as well as the challenges these soldiers faced, including relentless prejudice and substandard conditions. Despite these hardships, their service was marked by hope, pride, and honor, contributing significantly to the development of Arizona and the western United States.

Discover the rich history of Buffalo Soldiers stationed at key Arizona outposts like Fort Verde, Fort Grant, Camp Navajo, Camp Little, Fort Huachuca, and Arivaca. Through engaging storytelling and historical insights, this presentation sheds light on their vital contributions, resilience, and enduring legacy.

All are welcome!

Date: February 11, 2025
Time: 12:30 p.m. 1:30 p.m.
Location: Mesa Community College, Southern and Dobson Campus, Room AS191