Black troops’ memorial aims to foster healing

A state historical marker dedicated this summer at San Pedro Springs Park memorializes Black troops known as “Buffalo Soldiers” who trained there in 1867 and “served valiantly on the western frontier.”

But the complex historical role of the 9th Cavalry Regiment and other Buffalo Soldier Army units after emancipation and the end of the Civil War has come under scrutiny.

Bexar County Commissioner Tommy Calvert, responding to Native American concerns about brutal treatment of their ancestors, is forming a committee to guide the creation of a Buffalo Soldiers monument in Pletz County Park on the East Side, near the Salado Creek Greenway.

“Bexar County and this monument can and will be a place for healing America’s divisions, so that we can live together in peace,” Calvert told about 120 people gathered at the local Buffalo Soldiers Veterans Day ceremony at the San Antonio National Cemetery.

“I heard the concerns of our Native American brothers and sisters. I want them to know they will be respected in this process,” Calvert said.

In 1866, six Black regiments were created to help control hostilities from Indigenous tribes of the Great Plains, capture outlaws and protect settlers, stagecoaches and railroad crews. Other roles included clearing wagon trails and guarding mail deliveries.

In 1867, they were tasked with securing the road from San Antonio to El Paso. Many of their dealings, while facing discrimination from civilians and within the military, were with American Indians who were frustrated with life on reservations and the government’s broken promises.

San Antonio’s most tragic connection to the Buffalo Soldiers and its 24th Infantry occurred in 1917, as the largest murder trial and court-martial in U.S. history unfolded at Fort Sam Houston. The Houston Riot, also known as the Camp Lo

Jerry Lara / Staff photographer Members of the Bexar County Buffalo Soldiers salute at the end of a Veterans Day Ceremony at San Antonio National Cemetery.