Did You Know? US Army Soldiers protected our National Parks until 1914. In 1903 Buffalo Soldiers of the 9th Cavalry, led by Captain Charles Young, were garrisoned at the Presidio of San Francisco. Among other duties, they were stewards of Yosemite and Sequoia National Parks. They rested in Los Banos on day 7 of their 16 day journey by horseback from the Presidio to Sequoia.

Allensworth Field Trip - Update

Posted October 4, 2009 at by David Ofwono, President.

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Ladies and Gentlemen,

With regret the Los Banos Buffalo Soldiers Association (LBBSA) has cancelled the Los Banos Community Student Field Trip for the rededication Ceremony at Colonel Allensworth State Park.

However, we encourage anyone still interested in attending the Rededication Ceremony on October 10th, please do so.

The LBBSA sincerely appreciates the cooperation and support of the Los Banos Unified School District and Dr. Steve Tiejen the District Superintendent in particular by supporting us in this endeavor to provide a unique learning experience of regional, state and national history to our young people. The Los Banos School district was providing the Bus, Driver and Box Lunches for the Trip Unfortunately not enough of our community wanted to take advantage of the opportunity to learn about this little known or understood slice of American history.

There was however significant interest from Students and parents from other communities who wanted to go on this Trip but due to Liability issues the Los Banos School District is unable to support Students and Chaperones from outside of Los Banos. Hopefully this State Park will remain open for those who understand its significance. It came close to being shut down due to budget problems the State is having.

The Los Banos Buffalo Soldiers Association along with various supporters and interested individuals will still be attending the ceremony on October 10th. We invite anyone who is interested in joining us to do so. Please meet us in the Los Banos Wal-Mart parking Lot, October 10th @ 7:00 am; we’ll depart the Wal-Mart Parking lot at 7:30.

Please join us on this Historic day to celebrate the achievements of a true American Pioneer, a Buffalo Soldier, and an Educator who believed that through the power of Education ALL people are equal. If you’re unable to attend please visit our State Parks website and Via Magazine for stories on Col Allensworth State Historic Park where history comes alive.