[1] Buckner graduated from medical school in 1890 and practiced medicine in Indianapolis for a year before moving to Evansville, where he opened a doctor's office.

John W. Boehne, a prominent Evansville Democrat, brought Buckner to the attention of President Woodrow Wilson, who appointed him Minister Resident to Liberia in 1913.

[1] Buckner belonged to the African Methodist Episcopal Church and was active in Evansville civic affairs.

He regularly wrote the "Colored Folks" section of region's Democratic newsletter, urging them to support the party, earning himself the nickname "Elder Statesman of Indiana Blacks".

[7] His son, Zach Buckner, donated much of his father's memorabilia to the Evansville Museum, where it is on display in an exhibit.