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National Association of Buffalo Soldiers and Troopers Motorcycle Clubs
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The history of the Buffalo Soldiers Motorcycle Clubs began with a dream, in this case, the dream of Ken 'Dream Maker' Thomas. Believing that it was time to establish a modern, progressive motorcycle club whose focus was to promote a positive image among Blacks that would be respected in the community and throughout the country, Thomas founded the Buffalo Soldiers Motorcycle Club of Chicago, in October 1993. The name Buffalo Soldiers was initially selected to pay homage to, and ensure the legacy of, African American military contributions in the post Civil War era. Under the leadership of Ken Thomas, the new club was chartered as the Buffalo Troopers Motorcycle Club of Chicago.
Membership in the club grew to a total of ninety-two (92) during that first year, making it the largest Black motorcycle club in Chicago, IL. The
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Ken 'Dream Maker' Thomas
Founder
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clubhouse was located at 8510 South Ashland Avenue. Here, many items dedicated to the history and memory of the Buffalo Soldiers were displayed, such as pictures, books, statues, and an authentic buffalo head donated by member Ernie Daurham. In 1996, the club moved from this location to its current location at 13836 S. Indiana Avenue, Riverdale. IL.
The club's popularity grew as members attended the national roundups and rallies held in various cities in the country. This popularity transformed into interest of other clubs in affiliation with the Buffalo Troopers M/C of Chicago, IL. Brian Bulow, former President of the Maryland Chapter, and now Vice President of the NABSTMC saw the Chicago Buffalo Troopers at the Atlanta Roundup and displayed an interest in starting a chapter. That interest resulted in the first chapter to wear the “patch” outside of Chicago, IL. Soon after, others showed an interest and started chapters, the next four being Florida, Delaware, Virginia and New Jersey.
In 1999, the clubs formed the National Association of Buffalo Soldiers Motorcycle Clubs, and in 2006, became the National Association of Buffalo Soldiers and Troopers Motorcycle Clubs. Today, the NABSTMC consist of sixty-eight member chapters throughout the United States, including Hawaii, and 2 in Canada, with additional clubs petitioning for membership. All the chapters of the association determine whether they want to be recognized as “Buffalo Soldiers" or "Buffalo Troopers”. However, all of the member clubs wear the patch designed by the Chicago, Illinois, chapter and subscribe to the national rules, regulations and by-laws of the NABSTMC.
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The club is now an active participant in numerous charitable functions including supporting senior citizen homes, student scholarships and food and fund drives for charitable organizations, i.e. The March of Dimes and Toys for Tots. The club has also taken the responsibility of mentoring area youth and promoting educational programs which share enlightenment of the heritage that African Americans have played in the United States. We are also actively involved in recognizing the accomplishments and sacrifices of the Tuskegee Airmen. NABSTMCs encourage a positive image and behavior of our members and affiliates. We believe that we are role models and share a responsibility and a affirmative value system to our respective communities. The member chapters do not discriminate against race, religion, gender or ethnic origin. We are an organization characteristically comprised of minority members and accept those who share our values and support our cause.
To find a chapter near you, click on the 'Frontiers' or 'Chapter' link below...
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Thomas 'TC' Costley
National President
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