Buffalo Soldier Hat

AR_0003_04_0001

US Military

1866

Florida A&M University Meek-Eaton Southeastern Regional Black Archives Research Center and Museum

Fabric, Cloth, Metal

L:13in x W:7in

The Buffalo Soldier hat, also known as a Stratton hat, is a distinctive military hat with a wide brim that can be shaped to either side. It is typically made of felt or other sturdy material and features a tall, creased crown.

African American soldiers were allowed to enlist in the regular peacetime army of the United States for the first time at the end of the Civil War. Many of the new regulars had fought as United States Colored Troops during the war. By 1869, four African American regiments—the 9th and 10th Cavalry, the 24th and 25 Infantry—had been dispatched to the western frontier wars. Their duties were not limited to fighting Indians, who first called them "buffalo soldiers." In garrison, they drilled, stood guard, and maintained horses, barracks, weapons, and equipment. In the field, they patrolled harsh terrain in every extreme of weather, built or rebuilt army posts, strung telegraph wire, and escorted settlers, cattle herds, and railroad crews.

United States

Benjamin French Collection

AR_0003

Blacks in the Military, War, Segregation, Civil War, Revolutionary War, National Parks, Expeditions

Courtesy of the Meek-Eaton Black Archives/ Benjamin French Collection

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en On Display

Blacks in the Military Gallery