Buffalo Soldiers have been mythologized in movies, television, and popular songs. Despite this romanticism, their history is complex, and their stories are worthy of deeper understanding. For Race and Country: Buffalo Soldiers in California, a new exhibition from the Ontario Museum of History & Art, explores the surprising history surrounding all-Black US Army regiments whose members—both in and out of uniform—left powerful traces in the Golden State. The show runs through March 1, 2026.

Venturing beyond myths, the exhibition confronts the role of Black soldiers in the Army’s history of violence against Native American people, explores historical debates in the Black community over participation in wars, and exposes cracks in a society permeated by racism, in which African American soldiers faced the searing conflict between commitment to equality for their people and to the country they chose to serve. Such is the “double life” African Americans live, in the words of scholar W.E.B. Du Bois, including in the armed forces.

Through photographs, objects, historical records, newspapers, musical scores, and media representations, the exhibition presents a sweeping narrative of Black soldiers and their families who made California home during the era of government-sanctioned racial segregation in the US military. For Race and Country highlights Californians, from Northern California to the Mexican border, whose little-known influence transformed the state, and the nation. The presentation of the exhibition at the Ontario Museum of History & Art also includes special contributions from the Inland Empire Buffalo Soldier Heritage Association and Buffalo Soldiers 9th & 10th Horse Cavalry Association of Greater Los Angeles.

For Race and Country: Buffalo Soldiers in California is based on the California African American Museum exhibition of the same name, curated by Susan D. Anderson.

Additional related programming includes:

Studio Saturdays: Storytime in the Galleries, The Buffalo Soldier

Saturday, December 20 | 12 PM – 2 PM | All Ages

Step into the galleries for a special reading of The Buffalo Soldier by Sherry Garland, illustrated by Ronald Himler. Follow the powerful story of a young man who, after gaining his freedom, joins an all-Black cavalry regiment and helps shape American history. After the reading, visitors are invited to participate in a hands-on art activity and guided reflection inspired by the themes of resilience, land, and identity. This program is open to all ages, with content designed especially for those ages 8 and up. The program begins promptly at the stated time. Plan to attend the full duration of the program. Registration is recommended but not required. All materials are provided.

Film Night: Buffalo Soldiers: Fighting on Two Fronts

Thursday, January 8 | 5 PM – 7 PM | Ages 14 +

Experience an evening screening of Buffalo Soldiers: Fighting on Two Fronts, presented in conjunction with the exhibition For Race and Country: Buffalo Soldiers in California. The film examines Black soldiers’ service, segregation, and identity, highlighting their lasting impact on California and the nation. A facilitated discussion will follow the screening to explore the film’s themes and their connection to the current exhibition. Light refreshments provided.

First Thursdays: Buffalo Soldiers History Discussion Thursday, February 5 | 4 PM – 5:30 PM | Ages 15 +

Join the Museum for an afternoon discussion of the exhibition For Race and Country: Buffalo Soldiers in California. This introductory lecture will examine the legacy of the Buffalo Soldiers and highlight the individuals and communities working to preserve their memory. Light refreshments will be provided.

Studio Saturdays: Black History Month Collective Saturday, February 7 | 12 PM – 4 PM | All Ages

Celebrate Black History Month at the Museum and engage with local artists through interactive activities, creative projects, and inspiring conversations that honor and explore Black heritage and culture.

Exhibition Support

For Race and Country: Buffalo Soldiers in California is based on the California African American Museum exhibition of the same name, curated by Susan D. Anderson, and tours through Exhibit Envoy. The original exhibition was created with consultant Anthony J. Powell and researcher Caroline Collins.