Celebrating the legacy of the Buffalo Soldiers
SAN FRANCISCO (KRON) — The rich history of the Buffalo Soldiers in San Francisco is being brought to light by historian Brian G. Shellum, whose latest book explores their arrival in the city in 1902.
Shellum, a West Point graduate and retired army officer, has dedicated his research to the Buffalo Soldiers, a group of African American soldiers who played a significant role in U.S. military history. His work focuses on Charles Young, the first Black colonel in the U.S. Army, and the experiences of the 9th Cavalry in California.
'I saw the Presidio for the first time, and I saw where they lived and I saw where they'd, you know, where they were buried. And I just decided I had to write the book,' said Shellum, explaining his motivation for documenting this history.
More Black History Month stories
The Buffalo Soldiers arrived in San Francisco in 1902, marking the first time a segregated unit was stationed in a major city. Their presence in the Presidio was a significant moment in American history, as they transitioned from fighting in harsh environments at home and abroad to serving as the first park rangers.
Charles Young, a key figure in Shellum's research, was a trailblazer for African Americans in the military. As the 3rd West Point graduate, first Black man to achieve rank of colonel and highest-ranking black officer until his death in 1922, Young faced significant challenges, including racial isolation and discrimination, yet he persevered to mentor future generations of Black officers.
The Buffalo Soldiers' contributions extended beyond military achievements. They served as the honorary guard for President Roosevelt's visit to San Francisco in 1903 and were instrumental in protecting the National Parks. Their legacy is remembered at the national cemetery in San Francisco, where over 400 Buffalo Soldiers are buried, including Medal of Honor recipient William Thompkins.
Brian Shellum's work ensures that the legacy of the Buffalo Soldiers continues to be recognized and celebrated, highlighting their enduring impact on American history. 'There's plenty more work to be done,' Shellum remarked, expressing hope that future historians will continue to tell these important stories.
All facts from this article were gathered by KRON4 journalists. The article was converted into this format with assistance from artificial intelligence. It has been edited and approved by KRON4 staff.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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