A Soldier's Story

Opening November 10, 2026

A Soldier’s Story highlights the courage, sacrifice, and lived experiences of African Americans in the United States military, with a special focus on service members from Arkansas. The exhibition traces generations of military service—from the Civil War and frontier era through both World Wars, Korea, Vietnam, and into today’s armed forces—revealing what it meant to serve a nation while still fighting for equality at home.

Through personal artifacts, photographs, documents, uniforms, and firsthand accounts, A Soldier’s Story brings viewers beyond the battlefield to meet the individuals behind the uniform. Their experiences reflect themes of duty, resilience, family, and the profound influence of military service on Black communities.

Together, these stories honor the men and women who served and place their contributions within the broader history of African American life, citizenship, and the ongoing pursuit of freedom.