Residents and visitors of the City of Newburgh now have a unique opportunity to delve into history and culture at a rare Black-owned museum. The Buffalo Soldiers Exhibit, located at 109 Liberty Street, officially opened its doors, marking a significant milestone in preserving the legacy of the Buffalo Soldiers. This exhibit is notably the only Black-owned museum in Orange County, New York, and it needs your support to continue its mission.
Established through a collaborative effort involving the Buffalo Soldiers Motorcycle Club [BSMC], The Motorcycle Channel, The Buffalo Soldiers Association of West Point, and Motorcyclepedia Museum of Newburgh, this exhibit stands as one of the few Black-owned museums in New York State. Stepping into the museum, visitors are greeted with a treasure trove of memorabilia and photographs showcasing the rich history of the Buffalo Soldiers, an all African-American military unit formed following the Civil War. Notably, a striking display narrates the creation and journey of an official Buffalo Soldiers monument and statue, now proudly standing on the grounds of West Point.
The origins of the Buffalo Soldiers trace back to 1866, when the United States Congress passed legislation allowing African-Americans to enlist in the military during peacetime, a pivotal moment following the Civil War. The 9th and 10th Cavalry Regiment, comprised entirely of African-American soldiers, played a crucial role in the western expansion of the United States, earning the moniker "Buffalo Soldiers" from Native American adversaries. Their duties included protecting American settlers and engaging in battles that shaped the nation's history.
Rodney ‘Z-Man’ Thornton, the visionary behind the Buffalo Soldiers Exhibit, has been rightfully acknowledged as the recipient of the Sgt. Sanders Matthews Award for his relentless dedication to preserving the memory of the Buffalo Soldiers. "I’m honored to be one of the few Black-owned museums in New York and will continue to keep the legacy of The Buffalo Soldiers alive," says Z-Man. Assisting him in this noble endeavor are Tahlaad Mahboeb and Aundrea Matthews, who share, “It's an honor and privilege to keep the legacy of The Buffalo Soldiers alive through this amazing exhibit in Newburgh.”
Ted Doering, Founder of Motorcyclepedia, stands in staunch support of The Buffalo Soldiers Exhibit in Newburgh, housed alongside the Velocipede Bicycle Museum within the same building. Emphasizing the importance of this initiative, Doering affirms his commitment to preserving history for future generations.
For those eager to embark on this enlightening journey through history, The Buffalo Soldiers Exhibit welcomes visitors every Saturday from 10 am to 2 pm. Donations through the official website buffalosoldiersexhibit.com will enable the museum to extend its operating hours.
The Buffalo Soldiers Exhibit not only serves as a beacon of cultural preservation but also as a testament to the enduring legacy of these brave men and women who shaped the course of America’s history. Your support is vital to keep this significant cultural institution thriving.
(By Cynthia Topps)
Media Contact
Company Name: Urban News Network Broadcasting Company
Contact Person: Z-Man
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Phone: (845) 674-7283
City: Newburgh
State: New York
Country: United States
Website: https://www.urbannewsnetworks.com
