In 1866, The United States Congress enacted six segregated regiments which became four all-black regiment. They managed the western frontier after the Civil War. The four regiments were The 9th and 10th Calvary and the 24th and 25thInfantry. They were named “Buffalo Soldiers." Some 500 of these soldiers served in Yosemite & Sequoia National Forest. They protected against illegal poachers, timber thieves, and were dispatched to put out forest fires. Their story about confrontation, diplomacy, and hard work was nearly forgotten, but thankfully our national parks have put a spotlight on matters of racial disparity. Our country has a great story for all to rejoice in building America. When each of us can find our heritage marking great resolve and strength in us as a people, no matter what race you identify, hold yourself in pride that the America you know, was built for you.
References:
National Park Service, History; Buffalo Soldiers; U.S. Department of Interior, 2019
Listen to "A Buffalo Soldier Speaks," an audio podcast featuring National Park Ranger Shelton Johnson as Sergeant Elizy Boman, Troop "K," Ninth U.S. Cavalry, who was dispatched to Yosemite National Park in 1903 and served there through 1904.