SAN ANGELO, Texas — During the Indian Wars period in the late 1800s, one all-Black military unit was a foundational piece at San Angelo's Fort Concho National Historic Landmark. They were the Buffalo Soldiers and their courageous efforts earned them the nickname.
Their contributions to San Angelo's development as a city have been felt throughout generations, as president of the San Angelo NAACP Sherley Spears believes their efforts have raised us all.
"The Buffalo Soldiers were here and helped to make sure that the city, basically, developed. So, without their presence, without the military presence, period, the city probably would not have survived," Spears said.
In their honor, the San Angelo NAACP started a fund in 2022 for a Buffalo Soldier memorial for those who answered the call of duty. Spears, founder of the project, says she believes it was her calling from a higher power.
"The spirit of the Lord has guided this whole project along the way. I was obedient and allowed his spirit to guide this entire deal. It was something that people did not think we would be able to pull off, but we did, with him," Spears said.
The project took a year to complete with its ribbon cutting taking place July 28, 2023, on National Buffalo Soldiers Day. Nearly six months later, the grounds near the memorial have been renovated and a garden and memorial benches will be added throughout 2024.
In Spears' eyes, the renovations, maintenance for the memorial and each pillar itself gives every Buffalo Soldiers' soul a resting place.
"Now we have a place where their spirits can rest. I believe that everyone who was a part of this history now has a place that they can claim here in Texas," Spears said.
The memorial is at 717 S. Oakes St., across from Fort Concho in downtown San Angelo. If you would like to visit, it is free to the public and open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. On Feb. 25, Fort Concho will be hosting an event centered around "Buffalo Soldier Heritage Day".