History is best learned when all who helped make it are remembered.  

The spirit of remembrance led to creation of the 9th and 10th Buffalo Soldiers (Horse) Museum.

But first, some history.

After the Civil War, Congress authorized the creation of the 9th and 10th Cavalry and the 38th through the 41st Infantry Regiments in 1866.

These regiments were comprised of black enlisted men but led by white officers.  They saw action on the Western frontier against the Native Americans.

They were soon called "Buffalo Soldiers" by their foes.

One reason given for this is the soldiers reminded their Native American foes of the tenacity and strength of the buffalo.

Another reason for the name is because the soldiers' black curly hair reminded their enemies of a buffalo's coat.

Either way, these units were in over 100 engagements - from the Spanish American War and the Philippine Insurrection to World War I and World War II - and were collectively awarded 19 Medals of Honor until disbanded in 1944.

"This museum is about American history and the role African Americans played in it," said Jackie Jones-Hook, the museum's executive director.

"We're here to educate, preserve and present the history of this period," continued Jones-Hook.

William Jones, Jones-Hook's late father, founded the museum in 2005.

Enlisting in the Army during World War II, Jones served with the Buffalo Soldiers.  He also served during the Korean War and was for a while a prisoner of war.

After retiring from the Army, he collected artifacts and literature about Buffalo Soldiers as well as the service of other black soldiers.

"They served when their nation was not willing to serve them," observed former Secretary of State and retired Gen. Colin Powell, in a PowerPoint presentation.

When a 2,500-square-foot building came available, Jones bought and dedicated it to the Buffalo Soldiers by founding the museum.  

When he passed in 2009, his daughter took the reins and not only continues to work to honor the Buffalo Soldiers but also all black regiments in the Army.

"As a society we must remember our history and what these soldiers did," continued Jones-Hook.

"We must know our history if we are to continue to be a great country."

The museum, neat and packed with military artifacts, books, magazines and DVDs, is a walk through an important period of American history.

To promote its message, this repository of history hosts a golf tournament, a Labor Day festival, and a Veterans' Appreciation Day.

It is also involved with Tacoma public schools.

Funding, however, is a concern.

"We can use some financial help," said Jones-Hook.  "Our primary purpose is education, and we are always looking to make that presence greater."

The Buffalo Soldiers (Horse) Museum is located at 1940 South Wilkeson St. in Tacoma.  

The museum is open Wednesday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. or by appointment.  

For more information, visit buffalosoldierstacoma.org, email soldiersmuseum@aol.com, or call 253.272.4257.