Buffalo Soldiers Heritage Association president James Mills and volunteers.  

Left to Right; Gloria Turner, Tony LaRue, James Mills, Elroy Reese, John Henry, Vern Smith, Mike Green, and Queen McCatty. Not Pictured ( Homer Green, Amelia Watson, Ursula Henry, Anthony Scott, Rebekka Hughes, D'Andre Walker, LB, Micheal Cutajar, Molly Reeser and Ricco Ghee). 

          When you say the word horses, the city of Detroit is not the first place that comes to mind. However, Detroit and its horses are an important part of history at the Detroit-Rouge Park on the cities west end. What was once the Detroit Police mounting station now stands the Buffalo Soldiers Heritage Association (BSHA), where a forgotten piece of American History is kept alive. 

Part of our mission at the BSHA is to create fun and educational programs that engage visitors from all ages about the contributions of African Americans in the military. Through the History and Horses program we highlight the history of the buffalo soldiers and take visitors through a small pictorial display that pays homage to the bravery and heroism of the past.

It was the dream of First Sgt. James Mills, and his long time friend Bob Jarber (now deceased) to bring the  horses to the hearts of the youth in the community. When the soldiers inquired about using the stable for their horses, the City of Detroit Recreation Department and manager, Dr. Beverly Alexander, opened their arms and hearts to the idea. That was ten years ago and with the help of the Friends of Rouge Park and the president, Sally Petrella as our number one supporters we hope to continue keeping this legacy alive for years to come.