Cathy Williams: America's Female Buffalo Soldier

Cathy Williams, a former Missouri slave, became the first black female to serve in the United States Army when she enlisted in the 38th United States Infantry at Jefferson Barracks, Missouri, on November 15, 1866.

In the clever disguise of a man, Private William Cathay?her official enlistment name?served in the ranks of Company A, 38th United States Infantry, for nearly two years as a Buffalo Soldier.

This is the unforgettable story of Cathy Williams in her own words.