Rivers were important resources for the frontier settlers, and some rivers like the Concho encouraged the growth of new towns and even inspired local stories. But the Pecos River was different. Although it provided the water that people needed, it was also a dangerous obstacle for travelers. The Buffalo Soldiers in the area helped settlers by identifying and protecting river crossings and guarding supply routes. When you visit West Texas today and view these dramatic rivers, try to imagine how hard it was for the soldiers and pioneers to deal with the wild land and unpredictable waters. The Buffalo Soldiers’ work near the Concho and Pecos rivers enabled settlers to navigate these natural barriers, making it easier for people and goods to move across the state and settle places like Fort Davis.
In the late 1800s, the Buffalo Soldiers were key to making the Abilene area safe. Regiments like the 9th and 10th Cavalry campaigned here after the Civil War, protecting vital stagecoach routes…
The "Big Spring" was once a life-saving oasis on the West Texas plains, and Buffalo Soldiers, especially the 10th Cavalry, were well aware of its importance during their post-Civil War campaigns. They…
The vast plains around Lake Colorado City State Park in West Texas were once frequented by Buffalo Soldiers, particularly the 10th Cavalry out of Fort Concho, which campaigned extensively here in the…
Buffalo Soldiers, especially the 10th Cavalry, crossed this sea of sand in the vast, dry West Texas territory in the late 1800s. While battles didn't happen on the dunes themselves, soldiers traveling…
San Angelo State Park sits near historic Fort Concho, an important West Texas army post. Buffalo Soldiers, mainly the 10th U.S. Cavalry ("The Fighting Tenth") and troops from the 24th and 25th…
Marker #1549 Text: San Angelo established the "New City Cemetery" here in 1893 on 22.5 acres. The first recorded burial was that of city alderman George Bond's wife, Elise, in 1893.A cemetery…
The military history of Fort Chadbourne, a north central Texas frontier post established in 1852, may have ended after a brief sixteen years, but the Fort’s remarkable story had actually only just…
Fort Concho, established in 1867 on the banks of the Concho River, served as regimental headquarters for some of the most recognized frontier units in Texas history, including the 10th Cavalry, better…
Plains Trail Region
No. 1 Scenic Drive Big Spring, TX 79720 (432) 263-4931 Website
Forts Trail Region
630 S. Oakes St. San Angelo, TX 76903 (325) 481-2646 Website
Plains Trail Region
4582 FM 2836 Colorado City, TX 79512 (325) 728-3931 Website
Pecos Trail Region
Park Rd 41 Monahans, TX 79756 (432) 943-2092 Website
Forts Trail Region
3900-2 Mercedes San Angelo, TX 76901 (325) 949-4757 Website