From Staff Reports

HENDERSONVILLE, N.C. — A historic marker was unveiled for Sergeant Walter Bryson — a Henderson County native and a member of an all-black military unit known as the Buffalo Soldiers — on late afternoon Oct. 9 in Oakdale Cemetery here.

Bryson, celebrated as Henderson County’s only known Buffalo Soldier, reportedly was a highly skilled horseman and dedicated cavalryman, 

Bryson rode with the storied 9th and 10th Cavalry regiments, reportedly playing a role in shaping the American West by patrolling early national parks such as Yosemite and Sequoia, and serving at Fort Huachuca, Arizona

Event and marker details were as follows:

• Honoree: Sgt. Walter H. Bryson (born May 3, 1876), who served in the U.S. Army’s historic African-American Buffalo Soldier regiments after the Civil War.

• Location: Northern portion of Oakdale Cemetery (1100 6th Ave. W., Hendersonville).

• Organizers: The City of Hendersonville’s Historic Preservation Commission via its Neighborhood History Project.

In an Oct. 1 news release, the city stated:

“Born in Henderson County in 1876, Bryson served in the United States Army as part of the Buffalo Soldiers, the African-American regiments established following the Civil War. His story is part of the broader history of Henderson County and the many individuals who have contributed to the community’s history and heritage. 

“The marker unveiling will provide an opportunity for the community to learn more about Bryson’s life and military service, the history of the Buffalo Soldiers, and the significance of preserving and sharing these stories.”