About the Fort Riley Historical Society

The Fort Riley Historical Society is working hard to keep traditions alive! 

Fort Riley was established in 1853 to protect people traveling on the Oregon-California and Santa Fe trails. After the Civil War, Fort Riley became a major cavalry post and school for cavalry tactics and practice. During this time, George Custer was stationed at Fort Riley. Fort Riley was also home to the 9^th and 10^th  Cavalry Regiments, also known as the "Buffalo Soldiers," during the late 19^th  and early 20^th  centuries. After World War II, numerous Infantry Divisions were assigned to Fort Riley. Most notably, the post was home to the famed Big Red One from 1955-1996. Between 1999 and 2006, the post was headquarters to the 24^th  Infantry Division and known as "America's Warfighting Center." In August 2006, the Big Red One returned to Fort Riley from Leighton Barracks, Germany.

If you are interested in joining the board or otherwise volunteering, please don't hesitate to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.! ​