For Race and Country: Buffalo Soldiers in California

Description

For Race and Country follows Buffalo Soldiers from the San Francisco Presidio in 1898 to the last horse cavalry unit in WWII San Diego County, and explores the myths and legends surrounding the all-Black regiments in contemporary popular culture.

Between 1900 and 1950, thousands who had served in all-Black Army regiments made California their home. Whether on active duty or in retirement and out of uniform, Buffalo Soldiers bestowed many gifts upon the state. Beginning in 1899, when the 24th Infantry was first garrisoned at the San Francisco Presidio, to 1944, when the last horse unit in the US Army was disbanded during World War II, these men and their families built institutions, engaged in civic life, and contributed to the progress of California.

For Race and Country is based on the California African American Museum exhibition of the same name, curated by Susan D. Anderson. The exhibition’s title is derived from the inscription on a 1919 photographic portrait of then-Col. Young, “Yours for Race and Country.” This double loyalty, to his people and his nation, exemplifies the conflicts faced by African American soldiers during a time of government-imposed racial segregation. The exhibition also reveals the role played by Black soldiers in the Army’s history of violence against Native American people, and it presents debates in the Black community over participation in imperialist wars.

Today, Buffalo Soldiers are mainly known through legend and popular culture. For Race and Country goes beyond simplistic portrayals, providing a vehicle for the voices of the soldiers themselves.

For Race and Country: Buffalo Soldiers in California is based on the California African American Museum exhibition of the same name, curated by Susan D. Anderson, and tours through Exhibit Envoy.