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HONOR THE BRAVE
The West Ford Legacy Foundation presents the Major George W. Ford Exhibit.
Discover the inspiring legacy of the African American 9th and 10th Cavalry troops, famously known as the Buffalo Soldiers. This tribute celebrates their courage, resilience, and unwavering commitment to duty.
Major George W. Ford Exhibit
WEST FORD LEGACY
The West Ford Legacy Foundation honors West Ford, an African American who rose from enslavement to become a landowner and the founding father of Gum Springs, Virginia, the oldest African American community in Fairfax County.
MAJOR GEORGE WILLIAM FORD
This exhibit is a tribute to the life and achievements of Major George William Ford, an African American military officer renowned for his exceptional service in the U.S. Military. George Ford enlisted in the 10th Cavalry at the tender age of 19 and served from 1867 to 1877.
BUFFALO SOLDIERS
The Major George William Ford Exhibit, curated by the West Ford Legacy Foundation, pays tribute to the indomitable spirit of the African American 9th and 10th Cavalry troops, known as the Buffalo Soldiers. Through immersive exhibits, educational programs, and community outreach, this exhibit aims to deepen understanding of these soldiers' remarkable journey during America's westward migration.
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Traveling Through Time
DON'T MISS THE MAJOR GEORGE WILLIAM FORD EXHIBIT
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The Major George William Ford Exhibit isn't confined to a single location. As a traveling museum experience, it carries the inspiring stories of Major Ford and the Buffalo Soldiers across the country.
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Uncover the fascinating journey of these brave soldiers, from recruitment and training to courageous deployments. This interactive exhibit caters to all ages and learning styles, making history accessible and engaging.
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The Major George William Ford Exhibit fosters dialogue and reflection. Join us as we celebrate the legacy of these brave soldiers and explore their contributions to American history.
Our History
HISTORY OF MAJOR GEORGE WILLIAM FORD
1867-1877:
Enlisted in the 10th Cavalry at 19, served two terms with dedication and valor, and was honorably discharged as Regimental Quartermaster Sergeant at Ft. Concho.
1898:
At age 50, voluntarily enlisted in the 23rd Kansas Volunteers during the Spanish-American War and cultivated a close bond with Teddy Roosevelt.
1938:
Honored for distinguished service and as the last surviving member of the original 10th U.S. Cavalry with a portrait at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas.
Post Military Service:
Commended by Colonel Grierson, became Superintendent at Chattanooga National Cemetery in 1878, the first African American in this role, overseeing five national cemeteries until retirement in 1930.
Civil Rights Movement:
Served as Secretary of the Army and Navy Committee of the Niagara Movement, precursor to the NAACP, and was the first president of the Springfield, Illinois Branch of the NAACP.
Legacy:
Passed away at 91, received a full military funeral, and was laid to rest at Camp Butler National Cemetery. His life is extensively documented and commemorated in a 2023 mini-documentary.
1867-1877
Enlisted in the 10th Cavalry at 19, served two terms with dedication and valor, and was honorably discharged as Regimental Quartermaster Sergeant at Ft. Concho.
1898
At age 50, voluntarily enlisted in the 23rd Kansas Volunteers during the Spanish-American War and cultivated a close bond with Teddy Roosevelt.
1938
Honored for distinguished service and as the last surviving member of the original 10th U.S. Cavalry with a portrait at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas.
Post Military Service
Commended by Colonel Grierson, became Superintendent at Chattanooga National Cemetery in 1878, the first African American in this role, overseeing five national cemeteries until retirement in 1930.
Civil Rights Movement
Served as Secretary of the Army and Navy Committee of the Niagara Movement, precursor to the NAACP, and was the first president of the Springfield, Illinois Branch of the NAACP.
Legacy
Passed away at 91, received a full military funeral, and was laid to rest at Camp Butler National Cemetery. His life is extensively documented and commemorated in a 2023 mini-documentary.
Our History
HISTORY OF MAJOR GEORGE WILLIAM FORD
