Utah Black history is an important part of our state’s legacy. From early Black pioneers like Jane Manning James to the enduring legacy of the Buffalo Soldiers at Fort Douglas, Black Utahns have shaped the Beehive State in powerful ways. Here are seven ways you can learn more about them. Because history is stronger when every voice is heard.
1. Visit The Leonardo
The Leonardo’s exhibit, “Visions: Black History & Contemporary Voices,” celebrates black voices and “shares contemporary Utah-based artists’ stories and artistic visions.” You can visit the exhibit from February 7 through March 16.
2. Visit the Fort Douglas Military Museum
The Buffalo Soldiers, members of all-Black regiments in the U.S. Army, were stationed at Fort Douglas in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Today, their legacy is honored through exhibits at the Fort Douglas Military MuseumThese soldiers played a crucial role in maintaining order, constructing infrastructure, and protecting national parks, such as Yellowstone. Despite facing racism and segregation both within the military and from local communities, they demonstrated resilience and professionalism in their duties. Their presence in Utah contributed to the state’s Black history, influencing future generations of African American service members.
3. Schedule a Visit from the Utah Black History Museum Bus
A mobile museum that showcases Black Utahns, its mission is to “offer a non-discriminatory and more complete history of our citizens. We are here to represent the underrepresented in our school curriculums and community organizations who have been overlooked for centuries. We tell the stories of Black frontiersmen, writers, musicians, leaders, and many more whose history has, until now, been rarely heard.”
4. Visit the Pioneer Memorial Museum
At this museum, you’ll learn the stories of early Black pioneers. For example, Jane Manning James (1822–1908), a faithful LDS Church member, was one of the first Black pioneers in Utah and played a vital role in early settlement efforts. Samuel D. Chambers (1831–1929), another early Black pioneer in Utah, overcame slavery and became a successful farmer and influential member of the LDS Church.
5. Read Black Utah: Stories from a Thriving Community
Written by the Utah Black Chamber of Commerce, this book “highlights the stories and experiences of the Black community living in Utah. You’ll hear from dozens of individuals with diverse backgrounds sharing why Utah has a community for them and how they are thriving in this increasingly dynamic corner of the Mountain West.”
6.Check out Utah.gov
Utah.gov’s African-American web page gives a brief history of Black Utahns from the early 1800s to present day and includes several historical photos.
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