THE NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF
BUFFALO SOLDIERS & TROOPERS
MOTORCYCLE CLUB (NABSTMC)

The history of the National Association of Buffalo Soldiers & Troopers Motorcycle Clubs (NABSTMC) 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
clubhouse was located at 8510 South Ashland Avenue. The clubhouse displayed many items dedicated to
the history and memory of the Buffalo Soldiers 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 South Indiana Avenue, in Riverdale, Illinois.

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, Illinois. Then, Brian Bulow, a 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, Illinois. Soon afterwards, others showed an interest and started chapters, the next four being
Florida, Delaware, Virginia and New Jersey. In 1999, the clubs collectively formed the NABSTMC which
currently consists of forty-one member chapters throughout the United States with additional clubs
petitioning for membership.
All the chapters of the association determine whether they want to be recognized as “Buffalo Soldiers or
Troopers”. However, all the member clubs wear the patch designed by the Chicago, Illinois chapter and
subscribe to the NABSTMC rules, regulations, and by-laws.

The NABSTMC 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 NABSTMC has also taken the responsibility of mentors to area youth and
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.

NABSTMC encourage a positive image and behavior of our members and affiliates. We believe that we are
role models and share a responsibility and a positive value system to our respective communities. The
member chapters do not discriminate against race, religion, gender or ethnic origin. We are an organization
majority comprised of minority members and accept those who share our values and support our cause.
© 2006 Buffalo Soldiers Motorcycle Club of LA, Inc.  The Buffalo Soldiers / Troopers Logo
and Scholey are the registered trademark ® of the NABSTMC.  Permission to use this
image must be granted by Mr. Ken Thomas.
Ken "Dream Maker" Thomas
National President/Founder
Buffalo Soldier Motto:
" I am a Buffalo Soldier, and as a Buffalo Soldier I will uphold the standards and
traditions set forth by my Chapter and the National Association of Buffalo Soldiers and
Troopers Motorcycle clubs.

I am proud of my colors and the rich history that they represent.  I will wear my colors
with pride an will do all within my power to educate the general public about the rich
history of the 9th and 10th Cavalry Buffalo Soldiers.

I respect my colors and my Buffalo Soldiers, Sisters, and Brothers, and when my riding
days come to an end, I wish to be remembered as one who served with dignity, as a
responsible biker, and a proud Buffalo Soldier.

(chant)

BUFFALO....SOLDIERS.
BUFFALO....SOLDIERS.
BUFFALO....SOLDIERS.
And it's all good.
My name is Thomas “TC” Costley. Most people just
call me “TC.” I am 63 years young and currently the
Ambassador of the National Association of Buffalo
Soldiers & Troopers Motorcycle Clubs (NABSTMC).
As Ambassador, my goal is to continue to keep the
NABSTMC in the fore-front of the fight to change
the negative image of biking in general, and black
biking in particular. I ask that you all help to make
this goal a reality.