MAJOR GEORGE W. FORD
REMEMBERING MAJOR GEORGE
W. FORD: A TRAILBLAZER'S JOURNEY
Meet Major George William Ford, an African American whose remarkable journey from enslavement to becoming a landowner and founding father of Gum Springs, Virginia, inspires generations. Born into slavery, George Ford enlisted in the 10th Cavalry at 19, serving with distinction from 1867 to 1877. His bravery and dedication earned him the rank of Regimental Quartermaster Sergeant before his honorable discharge at Fort Concho in 1877.
During the Spanish-American War in 1898, at 50, Major Ford volunteered to serve in the Second Battalion of the 23rd Kansas Volunteers, achieving the rank of Major. His courage and leadership were evident, forging a close bond with Theodore Roosevelt, as reflected in their preserved correspondence at the National Archives.
Major George William Ford's legacy was celebrated posthumously. He was recognized as the last surviving member of the original 10th U.S. Cavalry. In 1938, his portrait was prominently displayed at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, honoring his enduring contributions to military history and African American heritage.
MAJOR GEORGE W. FORD: A LEGACY OF SERVICE AND LEADERSHIP
After serving in the military, Major George W. Ford made history by becoming the first African American Superintendent of the Chattanooga National Cemetery in Tennessee in 1878. Over 53 years, he oversaw five national cemeteries, including his final tenure at Camp Butler National Cemetery in Illinois until his retirement in 1930.
Beyond his cemetery management roles, Ford played a pivotal role in civil rights activism. He served as Secretary of the Army and Navy Committee of the Niagara Movement, a precursor to the NAACP. He later became the first NAACP's Springfield, Illinois Branch president.
Maintaining ties to the military, Ford advocated for veterans' well-being and mental health services. When he passed away at 91, his dedication was honored with a full military funeral at Camp Butler National Cemetery.
Ford's remarkable life and contributions are extensively documented in various publications and highlighted in the 2023 mini-documentary "The Last One Standing," celebrating his enduring legacy and significant role in American history.
At the onset of the Spanish-American War in 1898, George Ford made the courageous decision to enlist voluntarily, despite being 50 years old. He was bestowed with the esteemed rank of Major within the Second Battalion of the 23rd Kansas Volunteers.
During that time, Ford cultivated a close personal bond with Teddy Roosevelt, a connection that would later be documented through their exchanged letters conserved in the National Archives.In recognition of his distinguished service and status as the final surviving member of the original 10th U.S. Cavalry, which once comprised 1,225 brave individuals, Major George William Ford’s legacy was rightfully honored.
In 1938, his portrait was ceremoniously placed at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, commemorating his enduring contributions to the nation.
Post Military Service
On July 17, 1862, the Federal government authorized the establishment of national cemeteries, marking a pivotal moment in American history. Following his military service, George Ford received a commendation from Colonel Benjamin H. Grierson, who recommended him as Superintendent at Chattanooga National Cemetery in Tennessee on November 9, 1878. This distinction made George Ford the first African American to hold such a prestigious position.Over the course of 53 years, Ford dedicated himself to the solemn duty of overseeing five national cemeteries, leaving an indelible mark on their management and care. His final tenure was at Camp Butler National Cemetery in Springfield, Illinois, where he faithfully served until his well-deserved retirement in 1930.
George Ford played a pivotal role in the early civil rights movement by serving as the Secretary of the Army and Navy Committee of the Niagara Movement. This organization, founded by W.E.B. Du Bois in 1905, served as the precursor to the NAACP. Additionally, Ford became the first president of the Springfield, Illinois Branch of the NAACP, solidifying his reputation as a prominent civil rights activist in the capital city.
Despite his distinguished civilian endeavors, Ford remained connected to his military roots. He maintained close ties with his former unit, advocating for the well-being of veterans and lobbying for improved mental health services to support their reintegration into society.
After a long and illustrious career, Major George W. Ford passed away at the age of 91. In recognition of his service and dedication, he received a full military funeral and was laid to rest at Camp Butler National Cemetery, where he had served for twenty-five years.
Major George W. Ford's remarkable service has been extensively documented in numerous publications, reflecting his enduring legacy. Notable works such as "On the Trail of the Buffalo Soldiers by Frank N. Shubert, Men of Color to Arms by Elizabeth D. Leonard, and Who Were the Real Buffalo Soldiers by Robert Ewell Greene shed light on Ford's contributions and the broader history of African American soldiers. Additionally, the 2023 mini documentary The Last One Standing further commemorates his impactful journey and the significance of his role in history.
Post Military Service
The Major George William Ford Exhibit aims to honor not only his military service but also that of his fellow Buffalo Soldiers. Visitors are invited to embark on a transformative journey of discovery, reflection, and understanding, delving into the stories of these courageous Black soldiers who transitioned from slavery to service.
MAJOR GEORGE W. FORD
Maj 23RD. Kansas Vol. Infantry
Frontier and Spanish American Wars
Quartermaster Sergeant Troop L. 10th Calvary
1847-1939