Cathy Williams, a former Missouri slave, became the first black female
to serve in the United States Army when she enlisted in the 38th United
States Infantry at Jefferson Barracks, Missouri, on November 15, 1866.
In the clever disguise of a man, Private William Cathay-her official
enlistment name-served in the ranks of Company A, 38th United States
Infantry, for nearly two years as a Buffalo Soldier. This is the
unforgettable story of Cathy Williams in her own words.