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OUR STORY

Our story starts with Mr. Issac Steele, a third‑generation Black cowboy and descendant of the Buffalo Soldiers. 


Moving to Milwaukee from Greenwood, Mississippi in the 1970's, Steele opened a western themed welding shop on 31st & Brown on Milwaukee’s North Side. Steele's Welding is not your average welding shop, paying homage to African‑American cowboy heritage and hard work, while most importantly hosting the Milwaukee chapter of the Black Cowboy & Buffalo Soldiers Association (BCBSA).


With that knowledge, Steele and his crew of cowboys have set out to make welding, horses, history and hope accessible to Milwaukee communities, especially youth, through mentorship, equine experiences and cultural education.

OUR VISION

We envision a community where the legacy of Black cowboys is honored and integrated into every school, neighborhood parade and youth program; where horses, history and heritage converge to create opportunity, connection and pride.

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  • To preserve and share the history of the Buffalo Soldiers and Black cowboys.

  • To empower youth and communities through equine access, leadership development and historical awareness.

  • To build bridges through horseback riding, community events, storytelling
    and service.

  • To reflect dignity, resilience and heritage in every activity we engage in.

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MEET OUR TEAM

Issac  Steele
 
Founder & President, third‑generation cowboy, descendant of Buffalo Soldiers.
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Kevin Nichols

Leadership & Outreach, brings equine passion and renewed energy to our mission.

OUR PROGRAMS

  • School & Community Outreach: Visits to schools, churches and events sharing the Buffalo Soldier and cowboy narratives. 

  • Equine Access & Mentorship: Bringing horses to youth in Milwaukee, giving them hands‑on experience, direction and inspiration. 

  • Events & Partnerships: Juneteenth parades, Black Arts festivals, collaborations with institutions like the Urban Ecology Center in Milwaukee.

  • Leadership Transition: As Issac passes the torch, younger leaders like Kevin Nichols and others are joining to keep the movement alive and growing. 

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MEDIA INQUIRIES

Natalie Derr
920.296.6033

natderr76@gmail.com

GET INVOLVED

Kevin Nichols
414.215.4955
mkebsa@gmail.com
PO Box 11
Lannon, WI 53046

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© 2025 by Milwaukee Black Cowboys & Buffalo Soldier Assocation.


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