In 1868, the first black troops reported for duty at Fort Concho in San Angelo, TX. The nickname “buffalo soldier” was given by Native Americans because the soldier’s bravery and courage reminded them of the fierceness of the buffalo. The Buffalo Soldier is a symbol of the resilience of America’s African American soldiers, who endured hostile circumstances on the frontier and are among the finest soldier’s American history has produced. The black contribution to America’s westward expansion and specifically to Fort Concho will soon be recognized.
From now until the Summer of 2023, if you visit Fort Concho National Historic Landmark you will notice that in the Paseo de Santa Angela Park located across from the Fort is a sign that commemorates the future home of the San Angelo NAACP Buffalo Soldier Memorial. The memorial will honor the legacy of the courageous men who served at Fort Concho in its formative years.
For more information about the memorial and ways to donate please visit https://sanangelonaacp.org/buffalo-soldier-memorial-project/