Buffalo Soldiers in Lawton Oklahoma

On a drive down the streets of Lawton, Oklahoma, Lidia encounters more than a dozen soul food and barbecue restaurants. Many are owned by African-Americans, a testament to the growing economic power and vitality of a city which was recently named one of the most livable cities for African-Americans. Lawton has a remarkable history. It sits right next to the Fort Sill Army base, which in the mid-1800’s was home to the famed Buffalo Soldiers.

Lidia meets André Williams, National President of the Ninth and Tenth Cavalry Association, whose mission is to keep the history of the Buffalo Soldiers alive along with their connection to Fort Sill. Lidia also meets fellow soldier Wallace Moore.

In Lawton Oklahoma, Lidia and Wallace cook up food in the style of the Buffalo Soldiers.

They take Lidia to one of Lawton's favorite hotspots, Sam’s Soul Food, where they all enjoy specialty barbecue including ribs, cornbread and collard greens. Next they visit the Army base at Fort Sill, one of the original homes for the Buffalo Soldiers.

Lidia learns the about the history of the Buffalo soldiers, and their role in the 1800s, making the West safe for settlement. In the 1800’s, these soldiers often ate beans, bacon, hard bread, potatoes, onions and stews which were staples in their kitchens. They also relied on a good bean soup served with dried apples, peaches and biscuits.