“Buffalos,” a brand new literary experience co-authored by Creed Bratton and Nate Edmondson and published by Meridia Books, offers a compelling blend of fiction and history that immerses readers in the vibrant yet turbulent American West. While the narrative is fiction, it draws heavily on real historical events; it serves as both a captivating read and a springboard into the complex history of the Great Plains, the Native American tribes who called it home, and the U.S. Cavalry’s role in this transformative era.
Fiction Inspired by Fact
Set during and after the Civil War, “Buffalos” explores the legacy of the Buffalo Soldiers, African American troops who served with distinction in the U.S. Army, earning their name from Native Americans who revered their strength and bravery. It also delves into the lives of Plains tribes like the Cheyenne, illuminating the struggles they faced as their way of life was threatened by settler expansion and government policies.
While imbued with fiction, the book anchors its storytelling in historical events that defined the American West. One key moment is the post-Civil War establishment of the Buffalo Soldiers, who were pivotal in securing the frontier and protecting settlers while enduring systemic racism within the Army and beyond. The novel also references events like the Cheyenne Outbreak of 1879, when a group of Cheyenne prisoners escaped from Fort Robinson, leading to a tragic confrontation with the U.S. Army.
The book’s vivid portrayal of life in frontier forts, the challenges faced by Native tribes, and the harsh realities of the Plains environment provide readers with a lens into history, even as they follow fictional characters.
Preserving History: Fort Robinson and the Nebraska Historical Society
The history woven into Buffalos reflects the real-life preservation work made by organizations like the Nebraska Historical Society and Fort Robinson. Fort Robinson, now a historical park, was once a critical outpost for the U.S. Cavalry and was part of events like the Northern Cheyenne Exodus. Visitors to Fort Robinson can explore restored buildings, learn from exhibits detailing life on the frontier, and walk the grounds where history was made.
The Nebraska Historical Society complements these efforts by maintaining archives, curating museum exhibits, and conducting research that sheds light on the region’s rich history. Their work ensures that stories of the Plains tribes, the Buffalo Soldiers, and other historical figures remain accessible to the public and are preserved for future generations.
Other Guardians of the American West’s History
Beyond Nebraska, numerous organizations work to preserve the history of the American West. The National Museum of the American Indian highlights the diverse cultures and histories of Native tribes, offering resources for understanding their enduring contributions and struggles. The Buffalo Soldiers National Museum in Houston, Texas, focuses on the extraordinary legacy of African American soldiers, showing their courage and contributions in an era of racial inequality.
Local historical societies and institutions like the Western History Association are critical as they ensure that the stories of the people and events that shaped the West are not forgotten.
Why Fiction Matters in Preserving History
“Buffalos” displays the power of storytelling to engage readers with history in ways that textbooks or academic works might not. Fiction can breathe life into the past, making it more relatable and accessible while inspiring readers to explore the real events and figures.
By weaving real historical events into a fictional framework, Buffalos bridges the gap between entertainment and education, encouraging reflection on the themes of resilience, injustice, and humanity that remain relevant today.
“Buffalos” offers a gateway to deeper engagement with history. Exploring Fort Robinson, supporting organizations like the Nebraska Historical Society, and learning from institutions like the Buffalo Soldiers National Museum can bring the history behind the fiction to life.
Published by Meridia Books, the title is available this February wherever books are sold in all formats. The creators can be found on social media, and Meridia Books is on all relevant channels. Through fusing fiction and fact, Bratton and Edmondson offer a story that challenges, educates, and resonates long after the final page is turned.
