The Fayette school district will host a Black History Month presentation featuring nationally-recognized historian Kevin Smith at 9 a.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 24, at the high school gym. The event is free, and the public is invited. Visitors should sign in at the high school lobby prior to the program.

Smith is a nationally recognized historian and Park/Historic Site Specialist with Missouri State Parks. He will present an engaging and educational program on the history of the Iron Riders, a remarkable group of African American soldiers whose endurance, innovation, and courage helped shape U.S. military and African American history.

Originally from Washington, D.C., Smith grew up in a military family and traveled extensively throughout the world. Those experiences helped spark his deep interest in history. That passion evolved into a career dedicated to researching, preserving, and sharing African American history through interpretive programs delivered across the country. Since joining Missouri State Parks in July 2013, he has spoken at numerous historic sites, schools, and organizations nationwide, bringing powerful and often untold stories to life.

For the past six years, Smith has studied and presented the story of the Iron Riders, officially known as the 25th Infantry Bicycle Corps. Formed in the 1890s at Fort Missoula, Montana, the Corps was composed primarily of Black soldiers from the 25th Infantry Regiment, one of the famed Buffalo Soldier units established after the Civil War. Under the leadership of Lieutenant James A. Moss, the soldiers tested the military potential of bicycles as a faster, more efficient alternative to horses.

In 1897, the Iron Riders completed an extraordinary 1,900-mile journey from Fort Missoula, Montana, to St. Louis, Missouri. Seventeen men—fifteen Black enlisted soldiers, Lieutenant Moss, and a newspaper reporter—set out on June 14 and endured rugged terrain, harsh weather, mechanical failures, and exhausting conditions. Carrying nearly 60 pounds of gear each, they crossed mountains, muddy plains, and rivers before arriving in St. Louis 41 days later. Their accomplishment made national headlines and challenged the deeply rooted racial stereotypes of the era, highlighting the strength, discipline, and determination of African American soldiers.

Though bicycles were ultimately not adopted widely by the military, the legacy of the Iron Riders endures. Today, they are recognized as pioneers in both cycling and African American military history, embodying resilience, courage, and excellence in the face of adversity.

In addition to his professional work, Smith is a life member of the National Buffalo Soldiers Organization, Vice President of the Greater Los Angeles Area Chapter of the 9th and 10th Horse Cavalry Association, and a board member for the preservation of Camp Naco in Arizona. In his spare time, he enjoys traveling, reading, and spending time with family.

The presentation reflects Fayette High School’s commitment to providing students and the community with meaningful educational experiences that honor history, celebrate diversity, and inspire understanding. It is sponsored by Fayette Together and the Lincoln Public School Memorial Committee.