Potentially great museum/event venue being held back by horrible management/staff. Don't even think about having a event there.
I own a events and production company that produces over 200 events per year(ranging from 20 people, up to 15,000 person festivals). We helped out with a small event at the Buffalo Soldiers Museum(I saw it as a chance to scout out a potentially new location for events.) I scouted out the location, and found it severely lacking.
First problem: Only one hour allotted to set up for a dinner of 50.
So the time frame was really rushed, and I had to hire/bring more people than normal to be able to get everything done in time. That heavily increased costs of the event.
Second problem: No really good way to load into, or out off, the building.
We had to either carry everything up a steep flight of stairs(that has no landing at the door at the top of the stairs, which mandated having a person just stand there, and hold the door open(additional cost)) outside the front of the building.(extremely dangerous with hot trays of food, and heavy equipment), or go to the side entrance, around a corner to a elevator, up to the second floor, then DOWN another set of steep stairs!!(slightly less dangerous than the first option.)
Third problem: Incompetent, power hungry, staff The staff had no idea what had been contracted for the event.(tables chairs, etc. had not been set up, they had no idea where things were, etc.) When we asked about them, the staff were rude, and aloof. After we got everything set up, I decided to try to check out the other event spaces of the building, in case I could recommend the building for some of my clients. The staff then proceeded to tell me, "NO! you cannot be in this room!!!!"(I have NEVER had any other event space in Houston not want to show other spaces to paying customers! Most of the other ones that we use are usually falling over backwards to show off their space, in order to generate more business.)
Fourth: No support equipment/facilities
This may be another staff issue, but a attendee at the event wanted to show a slide show. NO ONE on staff even attempted to show where the outlets were, where to project to, and there was not a projector screen/surface to be found anywhere! There also was no Kitchen to stage/prep food. and the bathrooms are inefficient for more than 50, or so, people.
The building is not set up any real events management, and the staff is lacking in customer service skills, and knowledge of their own facility.
Needless to say, I will not recommend the building to any of my clients, and since the way the events side is run is mediocre, I expect the museum,(which I saw a little part of), to be...
Read moreAmazing Museum I never would have gone to had it not been for my friend's hubby from Canada (they were down for a visit). I don't have much interest in military history even though I am a vet, but this museum is very much about the stories of the people (one in particular stood out but I won't spoil the story) who came to be Buffalo Soldiers.
The museum has discounts for seniors, students and is reasonable at $10 each.
The map pamphlet lays the journey through the museum that you can take and you can obviously take as long as you need, watch or read what you want etc. There are two fascinating videos in two different rooms so make sure you catch those. Take the time to read the displays and in particular the letters that are written; amazing stories. The artifacts are cool and the whole building really captures the flavor of the time these soldiers served their country against all odds with great honor and pride. I was so interested in it all that I only took one photo, that my friend was moved by and wanted to remember. (I hope that is ok with the museum...)
The only criticism is that is was very cold in the museum which is usually a good thing but it was distractingly cold which is not usual or desired. But hey that's why we carry jackets in our cars down south.
Put this museum on your to-do list and I am certain you won't be disappointed. I would also note that they have a good...
Read moreLooking for an immersive and engaging way to learn about the history of African American soldiers in the United States military? Look no further than the Buffalo Soldiers National Museum!
This fascinating museum is dedicated to preserving and sharing the stories of the brave men and women who fought and served in the United States Army, particularly the Buffalo Soldiers - a group of African American soldiers who served during a time of racial segregation and discrimination. Through interactive exhibits, historical artifacts, and engaging displays, visitors can gain a deep understanding of the struggles and triumphs of these remarkable soldiers.
But the Buffalo Soldiers National Museum is much more than just a collection of artifacts and displays. It's a living tribute to the legacy of these soldiers, and a powerful reminder of their courage, dedication, and sacrifice. Whether you're a history buff, a veteran, or simply someone who appreciates the stories of unsung heroes, the Buffalo Soldiers National Museum is a must-visit destination that will leave you...
Read more