By Karen Gleason
The 830 Times
The Black Seminoles unparalleled history of military prowess and service was the focus of a presentation Saturday by a Seminole scholar and genealogist.
Denys Vasquez-Welch, herself a veteran of the U.S. military, spoke during the 2nd Annual International Indigenous and Native American Indian Gathering at the Del Rio Civic Center just prior to a ceremony honoring all military service veterans.
“Today I am deeply honored to share with you the remarkable legacy of service of my great ancestors. We as descendants take pride in recounting their stories for it is a part of our heritage, and it exemplifies the strength, resiliency and courage that they defined,” Vasquez-Welch said.
She told the audience she served 23 years in the military, retiring as a chief warrant officer 3, and noted she is a direct descendant of several men who were Seminole Negro Indian Scouts.
“The saga of these brave and strong individuals is one of courage, resilience and perseverance and are deeply intertwined with struggles of African-Americans, Native Americans and the nation as a whole.
“In the early Nineteenth Century, the Seminole tribe, as they are known today, lived in Spanish Florida. The Seminoles are a mixture of free people of color, indigenous tribal people and the self-emancipated people seeking freedom from the evil practice of slavery in the Southern states, who are commonly referred to as escaped slaves,” Vasquez-Welch told the audience.
“Around 1798, the United States government sought to expand its territory, leading to three Florida Seminole wars, fought between 1800 and 1842. Throughout those wars, our ancestors showcased their skills in guerilla warfare and their knowledge of the terrain, making them formidable opponents. We exhibited remarkable tenacity defending our homes and families against the encroaching forces,” she said.
“During this turbulent time period, the United States government officially recognized the darker-skinned people in the group as ‘Negroes’ or ‘Blacks’ and then Seminoles, and they named my great-uncle, John Horse, one of their chiefs,” she added.
Vasquez-Welch said tensions between the United States government and the Seminoles escalated and the United States sought to remove the Seminoles to Indian Territory west of the Mississippi River, in present-day Oklahoma. That journey, she said, became known as the Trail of Tears for the hardships and heartaches the displacement caused.
“While in Indian Territory, we faced more challenges, adapting to a new environment, but we continued to preserve our cultural identity and traditions, passing them down, generation to generation. As a result of the government going back on General Jessup’s promise of freedom, in 1849, a group of about 300 family members, led by Chief John Horse and Chief Wild Cat, made a courageous journey to Mexico with the intention of maintaining our freedom,” Vasquez-Welch said.
“The Mexican government granted us land, and it is called Colonia de los Negros del Nacimiento, loosely translated as ‘the birthplace of the Blacks,’ near Muzquiz, Coah., Mexico, and our men served in their military. While in Mexico for nearly 20 years, our men were exceptional soldiers, known for their expert tracking abilities, horsemanship and fearlessness in the face of danger.
“During that time, our people intermarried with Mexicans and free blacks in Mexico, but we still considered our community to be a Seminole tribe. Their reputation in Mexico was so widely known that United States military leaders like Major Bliss, who respected their skills and leadership, requested their assistance in the Texas Indian wars of 1820 to 1875,” Vasquez-Welch said.
After receiving permission from Chief John Horse, 12 men living in the community enlisted in the 25th Infantry Regiment, and in August 1870, the Seminole Negro Indian Scouts were established.
“This marked a significant turning point in our history, as my ancestors went from being freedom fighters to serving as scouts and protectors of the American people,” Vasquez-Welch said.
“However, as you know, in America, you are characterized by the color of your skin, and this time period, being post-slavery, some people felt it necessary yet again to make the distinction of color when addressing us. This caused more confusion over time, with questions arising, ‘Are we Seminoles? Are we Black? Are we Black Seminoles? Are we Creek? Are we Muskogee?’ The simple answer is yes, we are multi-cultured and multi-colored. We have indigenous blood. We have African blood. We have Spanish blood. We have Mexican blood, and we have American blood, as well as many other countries running through our veins,” she said.
“This is the beauty of my community, and we embrace and celebrate every single part that makes us unique. Despite our exemplary service and countless contribution to the United States military, our Scouts faced prejudice and discrimination, both within the Army and from society at large,” she added.
Despite the hardships they faced, the Scouts remained dedicated to their mission, she said, and one of their most significant chapters was their involvement in the Apache wars and in the pursuit of outlaws and bandits between 1873 and 1875.
“The Scouts displayed extraordinary acts of courage, contributing to four individuals being awarded the highest military decoration, the Medal of Honor, showcasing their invincible spirit. . . In 1914, after 44 years, with a total of around 150 men having served the United States government, the government disbanded the Seminole Negro Indian scouts. Regardless of this abrupt discharge as Scouts, several men joined the Buffalo soldier units, and some of our women married Buffalo soldiers and continued to serve this country.
“Currently, many of our descendants continue to serve in the United States military in all branches, building upon the tradition of bravery and honor set forth by our ancestors, leading us to an astonishing 150 years of continuous service. There is no other community of people in the history of the United States that has so many family members that have served this country,” she said.
“Today we honor the memory of these heroes, whose courage paved the way for progress and equality. Let us remember their bravery. Let their remember their sense of community and their determination to build a better future for themselves and their families. As descendants of these phenomenal people, we are proud to stand with you and share your remarkable legacy.
“It is a story of resistance, cooperation and the strength that comes from being unified. It is a testament to the power of perseverance in the face of adversity. Their story enriches our understanding of American history and inspires us to continue the journey toward a more just and inclusive society. Their bravery, their loyalty and their exceptional scouting skills have left a distinctive mark on the United States of America, reminding us of the importance of recognizing all who have contributed significantly to this nation’s growth. We encourage everyone to honor the Seminole Scouts for their unparalleled service and lasting impact for shaping this history,” she said.
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