Company L, 24th Infantry in Skagway

Arriving in May of 1899, the men of Company L, 24th Infantry, United States Army served their country from northern Lynn Canal. These Buffalo Soldiers fought a war on two fronts: protecting the community of Skagway while facing discrimination from the same people they served. Helping to tell their story is an ongoing project at Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park.

 
Lines of soldiers with guns on a wooden surface.
Buffalo Soldiers of Company L

Learn about the three years Company L, a unit of Black soldiers, spent serving their country in Southeast Alaska.

Black and white photo of church with sign reading "Presbyterian Church Y.M.C.A Free Reading Room"
The Y.M.C.A Controversy

When members of Company L tried to join Alaska's first Y.M.C.A. in 1900, a town conflict arose.

Black and white photo of woman and dog on low bridge in flood plane.
The Flood of 1901

In October 1901 the Skagway river rose quickly and threatened the town. Learn how Company L responded to the disaster.

Modern photo of a glass bottle
What Company L Left Behind

Objects discovered during archeological excavation hint at Company L's time in Skagway.

Ten young players and two adults pose with baseball gear and a cigar box.
Baseball in Skagway

Learn about the rise of "America's pastime" in Skagway and its role in Company L's experience in town.

Newspaper headline reading "Soldiers at Football"
Early days of Skagway Football

The soldiers of Company L made up Skagway's first football team.

 

Soldiers Stationed in Skagway

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    Tags: military
     

    Last updated: September 12, 2024

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    Contact Info

    Mailing Address:

    Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park
    P.O. Box 517

    Skagway, AK 99840

    Phone:

    907 983-9200

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