DID YOU KNOW?

Topeka Capital-Journal, The, Sep 21, 2008

Northeast Kansas was home to one of the first all-black units in the regular U.S. Army.

After the Civil War, many of the black soldiers who had fought wanted to continue to serve in the regular Army. In July 1866, permanent units were approved, and less than two months later Col. Benjamin Grierson formed the 10th Cavalry unit at Fort Leavenworth. It was one of two all-black mounted soldier units that would earn the name "Buffalo Soldiers."

The nickname was one they wore with pride. It was given to them by the Indian tribes they fought across Kansas and Oklahoma. While the exact reason for the name is debatable, it was taken to either refer to the men's black hair, or their valor in fighting. The Indians respected the buffalo and noted the fighting spirit of the men in these all-black units. Many of the soldiers received the Medal of Honor for their heroism.

The soldiers were also given the responsibility of helping open up much of the West, including laying telegraph lines, making maps of the territory and protecting railroad workers. The 10th Cavalry served in Kansas and Oklahoma for 10 years before being transferred to the Dakotas.

A monument to the Buffalo Soldier can be found at Fort Leavenworth.