Friday, April the 17th at 4:00pm

Buffalo Soldiers, Bandsmen and Bias

Presented by John P. Langellier, Ph.D.

Book Signing and Complimentary Reception to Follow

Located at VVAC 

In 1866, the United States Congress enacted legislation that for the first time permitted African Americans to enlist in the U.S. Army. One hundred and sixty years later, an often-overlooked part of the story will be revealed as the bandsmen and other musicians serving as “Buffalo Soldiers” contributed to overcoming racial bias through their performances and interactions with local communities.  

From his youth in Tucson, Arizona, John P. Langellier, developed a passion for the history of both the Borderlands and the American West. During his more than fifty-year career in public history, Langellier has served as a founding team member for the Autry Museum of the American West (Los Angeles), Director of the Wyoming State Museum in Cheyenne, Deputy Director of the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library (Simi Valley), and Executive Director of the Sharlot Hall Museum (Prescott). He also has taught at various institutions of higher learning, most recently through Northwestern University for his online course: “The African American Military Experience.” A frequent public speaker, he likewise has served as a consultant to television and motion pictures beginning with his first film collaboration—Apocalypse Now.

He has written scores of articles and dozens of books, including such titles as Scouting with the Buffalo Soldiers: Lieutenant Powhatan Clarke, Frederic Remington and the Tenth U.S. Cavalry in the Southwest; More Work Than Glory: Buffalo Soldiers in the United States Army, 1866-1916; and his newest publication, Buffalo Soldiers in Arizona, which will be available for purchase from VVAC after the presentation.  

John holds a B.A. and M.A. from the University of San Diego in history and historical archaeology and earned his Ph.D. from Kansas State University with an emphasis on U.S. military history.

Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis.

After the presentation, please join us for a complimentary reception featuring 

hors d’oeuvres, wine, and beverages.

A book signing will be provided during the reception. Buffalo Soldiers in Arizona is available for purchase at the museum during the event.