Exhibits

In 1866, the United States Army formed the 9^th and 10^th Cavalry and the 24^th and 25^th Infantry Regiments of African American soldiers to replace the United States Colored Troops (USCT) who fought during the American Civil War. Known as the Buffalo Soldiers, these African American troops played a major role in the history of the Western frontier. After the Spanish-American War, the Buffalo Soldiers spent several months recuperating in Huntsville, Alabama. The location of their respite became known as Cavalry Hill Park. The State Black Archives exhibit includes a uniform worn by a Buffalo Soldier, a miniature replica of the Buffalo Soldiers Memorial monument in downtown Huntsville, and several framed artwork depicting the soldiers in action.  

 

There are three Historically Black Institutions of Higher Learning in the Tennessee Valley Area that have been serving the black community since the late 19th century. These insitutions are Alabama Agriculture and Mechanical University; founded in 1875, Oakwood University; founded in 1896, and Joseph Drake State Community  and Technical College; founded in 1961. The exhibit tells the stories and narratives of just a few of the prominent leaders in these communities who have provided support and fostered growth throughout the larger North Alabama African-American Community.