The Buffalo Soldiers History Comes Alive at Abilene State Park

There are some history lessons you read about in a book, and then there are the ones you can actually walk into.

Get our free mobile app

As a history buff, I am pretty excited about what is coming to one of my favorite places in Texas, Abilene State Park. My friend Candyce Johnson at the park gave me an early heads-up that the Buffalo Soldiers Heritage Trail event is coming to the Big Country on Saturday, September 26.

And this is more than just another Saturday afternoon program. It is an opportunity for families, children, and anyone who loves Texas history to get an up-close look at an important part of our past.

Texas History Comes To Life

From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., visitors can explore a Buffalo Soldiers encampment, meet living-history educators from across Texas, and see demonstrations of what frontier life was like for these soldiers.

Photo by: Abilene State Park / Texas Parks & Wildlife / Candyce Johnson

The Buffalo Soldiers were Black U.S. Army troops who served on the western frontier following the Civil War. The 9th and 10th Cavalry and the 24th and 25th Infantry served throughout the American West, including Texas.

Their service and contributions helped shape both Texas and American history.

This Is History Our Kids Can Experience

That is one of the things I like most about an event like this.

Instead of our kids and schoolchildren only reading a paragraph about the Buffalo Soldiers in a history book, they can actually see an encampment, meet living-history educators, ask questions, and learn about the skills these soldiers used while serving on the frontier.

As someone who loves history, I think that is pretty cool.

Abilene State Park Gets A Special Celebration

The event also ties into the launch of the new Texas Buffalo Soldiers Heritage Trail website, a joint effort by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department and the Texas Historical Commission.

The website is designed to help preserve and share the stories, service, and legacy of the Buffalo Soldiers throughout Texas.

I am especially glad our own Abilene State Park gets to be part of this statewide celebration.

What You Need To Know Before You Go

The Buffalo Soldiers Heritage Trail event takes place Saturday, September 26, from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. at Abilene State Park.

The event itself is included with regular park admission. Admission is $5 per person for ages 13 and older, while children 12 and younger are admitted free.

There will also be an opportunity to take part in a guided hike through Abilene State Park following the event. If you plan to hike, bring plenty of water, wear appropriate walking shoes, and dress for the West Texas weather.

For me, this is exactly the kind of event that makes Texas history fun. Bring the family, bring the kids, and come experience a part of our state's history that deserves to be remembered.