www.newmexicopbs.org - Members of the Buffalo Soldiers Society of New Mexico share insights into the history of the Buffalo soldiers and how they contributed to New Mexico achieving statehood in 1912. They tell us of the challenges these soldier's faced, their hard work, and particularly of their bravery during the battle with Apache Chief Victorio at the isolated Massacre Canyon in the Black Range Mountains of southern New Mexico.
The Buffalo Soldiers primary duties during the post civil war were to protect isolated settlements and to establish towns throughout the southwest. The soldiers established mail and stage routes across the west and maintained law and order throughout the southwest region. They guarded important mountain passes, water holes, isolated settlements and many other tasks. The Buffalo Soldiers got their name from the plains Indians not only because of their wooly-like hair but also because of their unmatched courage and their superior fighting skills.
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