Honoring the Legacy of the Buffalo Soldiers
Buffalo Soldiers Day is celebrated on July 28 in America to honor the formation of the first regular Army regiments comprising African American soldiers in 1866. This day serves as a reminder of the bravery and contributions of these soldiers, who played a significant role in shaping the nation’s history.
To celebrate and preserve this legacy, the Wilmington Buffalo Soldiers Motorcycle Club was founded in North Carolina. Established in 2011 by Kenneth “Dream Maker” Thomas, the club was chartered by Sam Spicer and Mac Mitchell. The Wilmington chapter is part of a larger organization known as the National Association of the Buffalo Soldiers and Troopers Motorcycle Club (NABSTMC). This organization has chapters across the country and even internationally, with one in Germany.
The Wilmington chapter was the fifth NABSTMC chapter started in North Carolina. According to Radue “Zulu” Shakur, president and historian of the club, the chapter was formed because many like-minded individuals who enjoy riding motorcycles needed a structured and mature platform to express their love and appreciation for the rich history of the original Buffalo Soldiers. At the same time, the club aims to be a positive role model for the community.
The nickname “Buffalo Soldier” is believed to have originated from the 10th Cavalry, which fought against the American Plains Indians. The Plains Indians referred to the Black cavalry troops as “buffalo soldiers” due to their dark, curly hair, which resembled a buffalo’s coat, and their fierce fighting nature. Over time, the term became synonymous with all African American regiments formed in 1866.
Congress established the first peacetime all-Black regiments in the regular U.S. Army after the Civil War to help rebuild the country. These regiments, known as the Buffalo Soldiers, also fought on the Western frontier during the Plains Wars, from the early 1850s through the late 1870s. They protected unsettled lands as pioneers moved westward, playing a crucial role in the expansion of the United States.
The Wilmington Buffalo Soldiers Motorcycle Club consists mostly of veterans and professionals—both male and female—who enjoy traveling across the country on their motorcycles. The club is not just about riding; it is also about community service and education.
As a 501C3 nonprofit organization, the club volunteers its time to help feed the homeless, teach motorcycle safety, and inspire the younger generation. Each year, the chapter awards a scholarship to an individual entering college from one of the surrounding counties. This commitment to community service reflects the values that the Buffalo Soldiers stood for.
Currently, there are over 120 chapters nationwide, with international status including a chapter in Germany. The NABSTMC is one of the largest known motorcycle clubs in the world, uniting members who share a common interest in preserving the legacy of the Buffalo Soldiers.
Looking ahead, the club’s objective is to continue educating the community about the history of the Buffalo Soldiers of the 9th and 10th Calvary. It also aims to support and assist communities around the world. By honoring the past and engaging with the present, the club ensures that the spirit of the Buffalo Soldiers lives on.
Through its dedication to service, education, and community involvement, the Wilmington Buffalo Soldiers Motorcycle Club stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Buffalo Soldiers. Their efforts not only pay homage to the past but also inspire future generations to carry forward the values of courage, perseverance, and community service.
