The stables at the Presidio were built in 1914 after the 9th Cavalry was garrisoned here in 1903. The stables at that time were located in the area that would become known as Crissy Field. They were moved to their present location when the 1915 Panama-Pacific International Exposition was built on the bay front. In the later years, Buffalo Soldier cavalry regiments on their rotations to and from the Philippines did use these stables for short periods.

Today, Building 661 houses horses for the Park Police mounted patrol and is not open to the public. However, an interactive exhibit on the Buffalo Soldiers is located there and is used for educational programs with middle school students. Call 415-561-4329 for information on the educational program and on arranging a visit to the exhibit.

The Buffalo Soldier exhibit in the stables uses hands on items, such as a replica McClellan saddle that can be mounted, a buffalo hide that can be worn, and audio segments to teach children about the life of the Buffalo Soldier.