Music and Buffalo Soldiers will mix in perfect harmony at Fort Concho as they celebrate Black History Month with a Buffalo Soldiers event on Sunday, February 22, from 2 to 3:30 p.m. at the Commissary Building.
Military historian John Langellier, Ph.D., will give a presentation called “The Buffalo Soldier Regiments and Their Music.” He will discuss the musical contributions of Black troops in the West from 1866 to 1900. Langellier will also explain how their regimental bands helped build connections with nearby communities..
After the program, guests can take a shuttle cart to Barracks 1 to view an exhibit on regimental bands, featuring Tom Railsback’s musical instrument collection. Railsback co-authored “The Drums Would Roll” about late-1800s military bands.
Barracks 1 will also have displays about the history of the Standard-Times, buffalo soldiers, and the Comanches of Texas. Plus, visitors can check out the West Texas Buffalo Soldier Memorial, across the street from the fort.
Fort Concho was the headquarters of the famed 10th Cavalry Regiment. From 1875 to 1882, the regimental band entertained local residents. Commander Benjamin Grierson, who was a musician before joining the army, strongly supported the band.
The program is free and includes light refreshments. For more information, call Fort Concho at 325-481-2646.
