History Daily The Brownsville Affair
Aug 13, 2025
In August 1906, a shooting in Brownsville, Texas, ignited a firestorm of racial tensions and led to the largest dismissal in U.S. Army history. The narrative focuses on the experiences of Lon Evans and his community, showcasing the era's pervasive racism. It examines the aftermath, including President Roosevelt's controversial decision to dishonorably discharge soldiers. The story culminates in a moving ceremony honoring veteran Dorsey Willis, a poignant acknowledgment of historical injustice and personal sacrifice.
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Midnight Shooting Sparks Town Outrage
- Mayor Fred Coombe finds a dead bartender and townspeople accuse the 25th Infantry of the shooting on August 13, 1906.
- The incident set off a chain of events that would change over 150 lives and become the Brownsville Affair.
Black Soldiers Met With Deep Hostility
- The all-black 25th Infantry arrived to enforce order but faced entrenched local racism and hostility in Brownsville.
- Their presence heightened tensions rather than calming the town despite military service credentials.
Local Investigation Blames Soldiers
- After accusations, locals stormed Fort Brown and Governor-sent Captain Bill McDonald investigated, blaming the soldiers despite shaky witness accounts.
- The grand jury refused indictments, but McDonald ordered the regiment to leave and sent a damning report.