The Buffalo Soldier Heritage Trail by Ian Wright

Park City Museum will host a lecture called The Buffalo Soldier Heritage Trail given by Ian Wright on Wednesday, February 25, from 5-6 p.m. held at the Education and Collections Center located at 2079 Sidewinder Drive. More information can be found at www.parkcityhistory.org.

Come learn about the important but often overlooked or misunderstood history of the Buffalo Soldiers and their specific connection to Utah’s cultural heritage. Their story, which begins shortly after the Civil War, is one of resilience and lasting contribution, woven directly into the fabric of the country’s westward expansion and Utah’s unique history. Recently the State Historic Preservation Office, Sema Hadithi African American Heritage & Culture Foundation, and several other stakeholders worked together to develop the Utah Buffalo Soldier Heritage Trail.

In this presentation we will discuss the research, challenges, volunteer involvement, and trail locations associated with the Buffalo Soldiers and their time spent in Utah. This specific project transforms extensive research into accessible educational resources, including interpretive signage and a comprehensive website and ongoing research. Our ultimate goal is for this Utah heritage trail to provide travelers with a unique opportunity to experience history in the exact places where it happened, fostering a richer understanding and appreciation for the people who helped shape the state. The State Historic Preservation office will also be  providing free copies of the Buffalo Soldier Heritage Trail booklet, there will be an opportunity to experience actual artifacts and other lesser-known artifacts like photographs and documents connected to this story.

Ian Wright is Utah’s Public Archaeologist with the State Historic Preservation Office. He is a Salt Lake City native, where he lives with his wife and two children. Ian is
actively involved in his community, serving on regional boards and commissions. With a background in archaeology and community-based education, he holds a master’s degree in Cultural Heritage Management from Johns Hopkins University. Outside of work, Ian often spends his free time in his woodshop working on projects with his DNR-adopted desert Tortoise Winston keeping him company.