In the heart of history, some individuals transcend their roles as mere witnesses, becoming pivotal links to the past. Major George W. Ford stands as one such figure. A proud soldier of the 10th U.S. Cavalry, he poignantly declared, “I am the only living survivor of the original regiment, the 10th U.S. Cavalry, who marched away toward the Rio Grande, 1,225 strong in 1867.” His voice echoes a bygone era filled with trials, triumphs, and an enduring legacy.
In honor of Black History Month, the Temecula Valley Museum will unveil the Major George W. Ford Traveling Exhibit on February 13, 2026. This eight-week exhibit seeks to illuminate the remarkable life and legacy of Major Ford while celebrating the broader contributions of the Buffalo Soldiers—African American troops who played a significant role in the shaping of U.S. military and social history. As institutions across the nation reassess their portrayal of African American narratives, this exhibition arrives at a crucial moment of reflection and truth.
Major Ford passed away in 1939 at the age of ninety-one, epitomizing the end of an era that bridged the chasm between enslavement and active citizenship. His life was marked not only by service in the battlefield but also by significant contributions to civil rights. In later years, he became the superintendent for six of the nation’s National Cemeteries, actively preserving the memories of those who served. Additionally, he fostered meaningful relationships with prominent figures such as W.E.B. Du Bois and President Theodore Roosevelt, standing as a testament to the crucial intersection of military service and civic responsibility.
The Major George W. Ford Exhibit takes a multi-faceted approach, showcasing artifacts, correspondence, and photographs that illustrate Ford’s evolution from soldier to civic leader. Furthermore, it pays tribute to the Buffalo Soldiers, whose contributions shaped the military fabric and social narrative of the United States. With materials sourced from Ford’s descendants, the exhibit reveals previously unpublished aspects of his life, enhancing public knowledge and appreciation.
A significant component of the exhibit explores the complex interactions between the Buffalo Soldiers and Native American tribes during westward expansion. By presenting these intertwined narratives, the exhibition fosters a deeper comprehension of a turbulent period that impacted diverse communities, encouraging dialogue about shared histories and truths.
The opening program will feature remarks from Linda Allen Hollis, a direct descendant of Major Ford. A respected author, historian, and national speaker, Hollis will reflect on Ford’s journey as both a historical figure and family legacy. Her insights will delve into the overlapping histories of Native American tribes and the Buffalo Soldiers, emphasizing that acknowledgment of these interconnected stories can pave the way for understanding and reconciliation today. Hollis has previously authored I Cannot Tell a Lie: The True Story of George Washington’s African American Descendants and is recognized for her descendant-led historical research.
Working on the collection has been a deeply personal journey for Hollis. She expressed, “For generations, Major Ford’s story was carried within our family because it mattered. This exhibit brings that history into the public record—not to simplify the past, but to tell it honestly. When we hold these histories together, we gain a fuller understanding of who we are and how we arrived here.”
Curated by the West Ford Legacy Foundation, the exhibition aligns with the mission to preserve and share the legacy of Major Ford and his descendants. This initiative highlights the significance of descendant voices and the pursuit of historical truth through research, public education, and exhibitions.
The Major George W. Ford Exhibit will be on display from February 13 through April 2026 at the Temecula Valley Museum. For those interested in reserving the exhibit or for media inquiries, the West Ford Legacy Foundation can be contacted at info@westfordlegacy.com or 951-551-0783.
