On Tuesday, July 28, the Moab Museum will open a new exhibition exploring the history and legacy of the Buffalo Soldiers, Black soldiers who served in the United States Army following the Civil War. Through historical photographs, interpretive panels, and compelling stories of service, resilience, and achievement, the exhibition invites visitors to learn about a chapter of American history that is often overlooked.

Established by Congress in 1866, the Buffalo Soldier regiments were among the first peacetime all-Black units in the U.S. Army. Despite facing discrimination and segregation, these soldiers served with distinction across the American West, participating in military campaigns, protecting transportation routes, and contributing to the development of national parks and public lands. Their story is inseparable from the broader history of the American frontier and the landscapes that continue to shape life in the West today.

The new exhibition examines both the accomplishments of Buffalo Soldier history and the local connection. The 9th U.S. Cavalry mapped and patrolled the Utah-Colorado border in the late 19th century. Operating out of Fort Garland, Colorado, and Fort Duchesne, Utah, they extensively surveyed the rugged landscapes of the Uintah Basin, Abajo Mountains, and the Book Cliffs.

This exhibition comes as the third installation in the Museum’s Semiquincentennial commemoration as part of the broader exhibition series “Voices of the Plateau.” This special series will highlight the diverse stories of the Colorado Plateau region, offering artists, Tribal communities, local organizations, and residents—past and present—an opportunity to share their experiences of identity, culture, and home. Throughout the year, the Museum will serve as a platform to elevate these voices, with art as the central medium for expression and reflection. 

The Moab Museum invites residents and visitors alike to join us for the exhibition’s opening on July 28 and to explore this remarkable chapter of American history. Through the stories of the Buffalo Soldiers, visitors will gain insight into the challenges these soldiers faced, the contributions they made, and the enduring legacy they left across the nation and throughout the West.

For more information about exhibition hours, related programs, and upcoming events, visit the Museum or follow the latest updates at moabmuseum.org.

This year’s Annual Ice Cream Social is going to be bigger and better than ever! Join the Moab Museum AND Moab Arts on July 24th from 4-7pm at the Center St. Ball Fields for ice cream, live music, lawn games, pie contest, and crafts and activities inspired by the traveling Voices and Votes: Democracy in America exhibition.

The Annual Ice Cream Social and Pie Contest will feature delicious Aggie Ice Cream ice generously donated by USU Moab & sorbet from Sweet Serendipity. Live music with members of the Moab Community Dance Band.

PIE CONTEST: Winners of the pie contest will enjoy fame, glory, and at least one year’s worth of bragging rights for Moab’s best pie. A selection of pies will be auctioned off throughout the evening to the highest bidding pie lover. Pie contestants are encouraged to bring TWO pies - one to be judged and one to be auctioned. All pies must be homemade – historic and family recipes appreciated but not required! Pies may be dropped at the Moab Museum between 9am and 3pm on July 24. Please prepare to leave your name, title of your submission, and list of ingredients upon arrival. Reach out to Tara Beresh, tara@moabmuseum.org, with any questions.

From Mexico to the Southwestern United States and beyond, lowriders carry stories of identity, family, and creativity. Until July 14th, enjoy the Museum’s exhibition “Lowriding Culture in the American Southwest” featuring photographs and papier mache art installations. As you walk through the exhibition, consider how the shared love of craft, movement, and style builds communities across generations and cultures.