The artwork includes a mural of the late Horace Paul Williams, a military veteran remembered as a key figure in Austin’s Buffalo Soldier community.
AUSTIN, Texas — Four-story murals honoring Black culture and equestrian history now rise above East Austin, paying tribute to generations of trail riders and Buffalo Soldiers whose impact continues to shape the community.
The large-scale artwork features former members of the East Austin Trail Riders, including the late Horace Paul Williams, a military veteran remembered as a key figure in Austin’s Buffalo Soldier community.
“He was very instrumental in bringing us together,” said Sealton P. Williams of the Ninth Cavalry Buffalo Soldiers, who considered Horace Williams an uncle after knowing him for three decades before his death. “He started the Buffalo Soldier organization in Austin. The purpose is to educate people on the history of the Black soldiers.”
Current trail riders, including Dennis Ray Milligan, are also depicted on the murals. Milligan said the artwork is especially meaningful as East Austin continues to undergo rapid change.
“We’re trying to make sure it’s acknowledged that we’re here; we’re here to stay,” Milligan said.
He noted that his property has been in place since 1985 but recent zoning efforts have raised concerns about the future.
“As far as I’m concerned, we’re going to be here,” he said.
Beyond public art, the riders’ presence is woven into the community. Milligan recalled how he and other riders were invited to serve as the mascot for Norman-Sims Elementary School.
“We volunteered,” he said. “Every year we come up here for the kids, let them see the horse, touch the horse, give them knowledge of the horses.”
The murals are the result of a five-week collaboration between visual artist Toni Ardizzone and nonprofit Foundation Communities at Norman Commons, a newly built affordable housing complex in East Austin.
“I thought it would be a great opportunity to learn about the trail riders,” Ardizzone said. “They wanted Black equestrian culture to be the theme. This is Bill Pickett [on the mural] behind me. He starts it chronologically, and then the story carries over to contemporary riders.”
The artwork traces a timeline from legendary Black cowboy Bill Pickett to present-day trail riders, highlighting a cultural legacy that community members say deserves lasting recognition.
“It’s beautiful to see that people recognize that,” Williams said, noting the tribute came at the end of Black History Month.
Foundation Communities said the murals reflect the broader mission of Norman Commons Apartments, which is now leasing to income-qualified residents. Leaders said the goal is not only to provide affordable housing, but to create a space rooted in East Austin’s history and culture.
Norman Commons is currently leasing units with home appliances and access to their afterschool and summer programs. Click here to find out if you meet the requirements to apply.