EXHIBIT STATEMENT
As a lifestyle and documentary photographer, I create projects to capture the essence of individuals and historical events that provide insight into cultural and social issues in our communities. The one common thread of my work is to educate and inspire.
“In the Spirit of Bravery” is a compilation of black-and-white photographs that show volunteers who “love what they do” at the Buffalo Soldiers Heritage Association (BSHA), a non-profit organization in Detroit, Michigan. As former U.S. Army First Sergeant James Mills and the entire team preserve the legacy of the Buffalo Soldiers — six all-Black cavalry and infantry regiments created in 1866 after the Civil War — they are making a difference in their community.
As a current student of photography, my exhibit highlights the Buffalo Soldiers Detroit Stables, the first of its kind in an urban city. Along with a history lesson, children have an opportunity to experience horses in the heart of the city. It’s gratifying when they learn the proper etiquette for feeding, saddling, and riding horses for the first time. The horses are gentle and the children’s smiles are priceless.
I appreciate Buffalo Soldiers Detroit and the opportunity to capture moments and share what they do 365 days of the year. As a volunteer myself, I have always had an interest in photography. I find it quite rewarding to share stories of community volunteers through my lens.
THE PHOTOGRAPHS
THE FUTURE2019
Buffalo Soldiers Heritage Association (BSHA), a place of serenity for all ages, keeps the memory alive of Buffalo Soldiers. Visitors can see the beauty as they explore the stables, view historical memorabilia, and learn about their courageous journey. |
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HERITAGE2019
Former First Sergeant James Mills walking Lacey to another part of the grounds to socialize with other horses. Former First Sergeant James Mills, United States Army, honors the legacy of the Buffalo Soldiers as he serves as president of BSHA. His dream, along with his long-time friend Bob Jarber, came true 17 years ago when they began sharing their love of horses with youth in the Detroit metro area. His niece Lisa Goldsmith, former BSHA secretary and treasury, helped form the partnership with Friends of Rouge Park and Detroit City Council. BSHA’s home at Rouge Park for the past 12 years is a former Detroit Mounting Police Station. |
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OUT FOR THE MORNING2019
Former First Sergeant James Mills exiting the stables with Beamer for regular exercise outdoors. "Buffalo Soldiers represent respected bravery. When you do things that you are afraid of, you will overcome come the fear.” ~ Former First Sergeant James Mills |
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OUR HISTORY2019
Les VanBuren sitting near a historical display after a brief meeting. |
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THE LEGACY2019
Volunteer's jacket hangs on a door near a historical painting. |
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PROTECTION2019
A hat, representative of the ones worn by Buffalo Soldiers. |
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REJUVENATE2019
Volunteers groom the horses to remove dirt and create a shinier coat. |
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BEYOND THE PAGES2019
Children borrow books from The Little Free Library on the BSHA property.
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GENERATIONS2019
The dedicated owners and volunteers are family, caring for the horses 365 days a year. Pictured (L to R): Elroy Reese, James Mills, Les VanBuren, Justin Whiting, Vernon Smith, and Michael Green Not pictured: Edie Abramczy (Beamer) | Homer Green | Michael Green (Coco) | John Henry (Captain) | Ursula Henry (Boots) | James Mills (Cinnamon & Lacey) | Elroy Reese (Coco & Mr. Sassy) | Vernon Smith (Miss Penny) | Gloria Turner (Sonny)
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FRIENDS2019
Mr. Sassy and Sonny.
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AFTERNOON SNACK2019
Justin Whiting has been trained to saddle, ride, and feed the horses.
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TAKE THE REINS2019
Justin Whiting leads Miss Penny to her stall with the assistance of Elroy Reese.
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PRIDE2019
Visitors enjoy the outdoors and horses at BSHA located at Rouge Park in Detroit, Michigan.
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LONG DAY2019
Gloria Turner with Miss Penny as she retires for the day.
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COMPASSION2019
A lot of TLC makes a difference. John Henry makes sure Captain is healthy.
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FOCUSED2019
Celebrating his birthday, Bastion Willer looks at his shadow as he enjoys his ride.
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STILL2019
Caesar in one of his favorite places.
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QUICK RIDE2019
Michael Green and Coco return to the stables after a ride around Rouge Park.
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TRANQUILITY2019
One-of-kind gem and place of serenity in Detroit.
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LOVE WHAT WE DO2019
Edie Abramczyk with Beamer just before mealtime.
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GAZE2019
Lacey gazing on a beautiful fall day.
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BEST TIME2019
Breylan Brown has the best smile during his ride, led by Elroy Reese. |
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CONNECTION2019
Caesar, the friendliest barn cat, gets to know Kaiden Ellis. |
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PROUD FAMILY2019
Darius Thomas celebrating his birthday with his parents, family, and friends on the east side of Detroit. |
The Buffalo Soldiers Legacy in Detroit
Located in Detroit's Rouge Park there is a small Buffalo Soldiers pictorial display where First Sgt. James Mills shares with its visitors a forgotten piece of American history. Where was once an abandoned Detroit Mounted Police station now stands the Buffalo Soldiers Heritage Center.
Visitors from all ages, cultural, and socioeconomic backgrounds enjoy the history and horses (in the hood) at Rouge Park.
It was a dream of James Mills and his longtime friend, the late Bob Jarber, to bring the horses to the hearts of the youth in the community. When the soldiers inquired about using the stable for their horses, the City of Detroit Recreation Department and its manager, Dr. Beverly Alexander, opened their arms and hearts to the idea. That was eight years ago and with the Friends of Rouge Park and the president, Sally Petrella as their number one supporter, the stable still houses the horses. Visitors come by daily to give the horses treats. On occasion, the soldiers and volunteers give tours, history lectures, horse grooming sessions, and pony rides to youth groups, church groups, and neighborhood groups.
The story of the Buffalo Soldiers and their undeniable courage and patriotism is woven into the fabric of American history. Buffalo Soldiers, comprised of former slaves, freemen, and Black civil war soldiers, were the first to serve during peacetime.
To learn more about the Buffalo Soldiers Detroit, visit buffalosoldiersdetroit.org
About Cynthia Ellis
Cynthia Ellis is a Detroit native who believes you should follow your passion. She was intrigued and curious about photography at a young age after seeing her brother with his camera.
With a background in event management, Cynthia decided to focus her continuous education on photography. She earned a Certificate in Photography at Washtenaw Community College in 2020. She is also an alumna of Michigan State University.
Cynthia primarily uses digital cameras, and occasionally film, for portraits, landscape, and macro photography. As an active volunteer, Cynthia enjoys capturing the essence of people who are making a difference in the lives of others. She resides in Ann Arbor with her family.
To see more of Cynthia's work, visit her website.