The Belleville Black Knights were an all-male Drum &  Bugle Corps organized in September of 1953 by Director Forrest Creson and Business Manager Vern Poole. The Belleville Black Knights quickly gained state and national prominence early on as they won the Amvets National Championships in 1954 … their first year in competition.

In 1972, the Black Knights opened up their membership to females and became co-ed.

Throughout their years in competition, they amassed many awards and titles which included 5 National Championships, 24 State Championships, and finalist positions at 25 National Championships. The Black Knights were in existence from 1953 through 1990.