Check this out: Buffalo Solider Memorial in Junction City

The Buffalo Solider Memorial is located in Junction City.

We finish Black History Month by visiting The Buffalo Soldier Memorial, which is located in Junction City and is dedicated to the 9^th and 10^th Horse Cavalry Regiments stationed at Ft. Riley – the famous “Buffalo Soldiers.”  The memorial wall is constructed of native limestone and serves as a backdrop for a 9-foot bronze sculpted statue of a Buffalo Soldier by his horse.  The site of the memorial is near a one-of-a-kind 1940s government housing area once designated for the Buffalo Soldiers and their families. These brick single-family dwellings are the only remaining set in existence today.

A close up of the Buffalo Soldier Memorial.

From 1866 through the Second World War, Buffalo Soldiers selflessly served and courageously fought in defense of our Nation and they are a reflection of the courageous sacrifice and magnificent service these men gave to the United States of America.  Native American tribes dubbed the black troopers “Buffalo Soldiers” as a sign of respect for the tenacity and valor they displayed in combat throughout the western frontier.

Motoring Monday: Fort Larned National Historic Site

Fort Larned will celebrate the 150th anniversary of the Buffalo Soldier in the U.S. Army 

Fort Larned National Historic Site in Larned was originally constructed in 1859 to allow safe travels on the Sante Fe Trail from the Indians living nearby.

Now, there are Civil War reenactments, touring opportunities and educational opportunities for people to enjoy.

This year, Fort Larned National Historic Site is participating in the 150^th anniversary of the Buffalo Soldier in the U.S. Army, which honors the legacy of the African American soldier units who fought in the Civil War. There are many programs and events open to the public this year that celebrate their legacy.

There are also opportunities for ranger guided tours and mobile tours in the fort. A summer time highlight of the fort is the Heritage Garden. This is a unique garden drawing upon the fort’s historical roots, since many officers and soldiers planted gardens to keep from getting scurvy. 

There are great educational opportunities at Fort Larned. The park is an active participant in the Ticket to Ride program, which gives young students free transportation to parks throughout our nation.

The historical site is open every day to the public with no admittance fee. To learn more about this historical site visit National Park Services: Fort Larned.

Shops at Fort Larned