Ontario Museum Exhibit Honors Buffalo Soldiers

Trailblazing African American U.S. Army servicemembers featured in new display

Published on Feb. 7, 2026

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An exhibit dedicated to the first African American soldiers to join the U.S. Army, known as the "buffalo soldiers", is on display at the Ontario Museum of History and Art. The exhibit coincides with Black History Month and features dozens of photographs, artifacts, and replica uniforms highlighting the history and legacy of these trailblazing servicemembers.

Why it matters

The Buffalo Soldiers were some of the first African American soldiers in the U.S. Army, serving from the Civil War through World War II. This exhibit shines a light on their important contributions and helps educate the public about this often overlooked chapter of American military history.

The details

The exhibit includes dozens of photographs, as well as several artifacts including replica uniforms and a genuine harness worn by a buffalo soldier nearly a century ago. "The term 'buffalo soldier' itself comes from more of a legend and a myth," said Samantha Herrera, a spokesperson for the Ontario Museum of History and Art. "Native Americans saw them in their large thick winter coats, and their hair resembled that of a buffalo." The Buffalo Soldiers fought in the U.S. Army through World War Two, when the U.S. Army was finally desegregated.

  • The exhibit is on display through March 1st, 2026.
  • The Buffalo Soldiers served in the U.S. Army from the Civil War through World War II.

The players

Samantha Herrera

A spokesperson for the Ontario Museum of History and Art.

Fernando Lopez

An expert on the history of the Buffalo Soldiers.

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What they’re saying

“We're truly excited to have this exhibition on board. Normally don't have a lot of history exhibits that branch out into the African American community.”

— Samantha Herrera, Spokesperson, Ontario Museum of History and Art (abc7.com)

“There was a shortage of manpower. Many enslaved African Americans in the South went across to Union lines.”

— Fernando Lopez, Historian (abc7.com)

The takeaway

This exhibit provides an important opportunity to learn about the trailblazing Buffalo Soldiers, who served with distinction in the U.S. Army despite facing discrimination, and played a crucial role in the desegregation of the military.