NYMETROPOLIS

Legacy Gallery

Since the 1950s, African American drum and bugle corps have played a significant role in New York City's urban communities. These corps were a vital fabric of the African-American community, especially during the 1950s, 60s, and 70s. They provided a sense of pride, discipline, and unity, fostering community spirit and cultural expression through music and performance. The Minisink Warriors, formed in 1937, and the New York Crimson Kings, established in the 1950s, are notable examples of such groups that have left a lasting impact on the community. These organizations not only offered a positive outlet for youth but also became a source of local identity and heritage, contributing to the enrichment of cultural life in urban areas .