Lost Buffalo Soldier Found!

Posted April 27, 2010 at by Jeff Periera.

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Buffalo Soldier Found in Los Banos Cemetery!
Private James “Jim” Hall, has been resting  in Los Banos since 1955; he was recently “found” by local historian David Dieckmann who actually remembers him from his youth!

James Hall 1877-1955 - Photo By Geneva Brett

Private Hall, along with the other Buffalo Soldiers of the 24th  Infantry rested in Los Banos on day 7 of their 16 day journey from the Presidio to Sequoia National Park, where they served as park protectors for the summer.  Sometime thereafter this Buffalo Soldier made Los Banos his home …. we wonder if he fell in love with a lovely woman, or our town;-)   Imagine if you will, the year is 1899, a  22 year old “Negro” male from Maryland recently returned from fighting a war.  During his brief stay in Los Banos he must have noticed the local citizens; Germans, Portuguese, Mexicans, French, Dutch, Peruvian, Spanish, Chinese, Samoan, Filipino, Irish, Indonesians, Italians, Irish, Basque, Swedish, Scottish, Chilean,Armenian, Native Americans, Anglos and African Americans. Looking at that diversity he might have thought he could make a home for himself in such a community; here he could either fit in or just get by.  And so he did until his death.

Folks this is just 1 story of the Historic Trail!  David Dieckmann will be writing his story about Pvt Hall in the not too distant future. Thank you Ranger Shelton Johnson for providing us with the actual muster rolls of 1899, 1903 and 1904.

3 Comments

A. Dahir

On August 4, 2011

We (me and my precious daughter Liyah) had a great time at the Presidio camp. My little girl has unforgettable memory for being there. It was a trip of a lifetime for her. The whole crew was fantastic. I want to salute President David Ofwono and the leadership of the Los Banos Buffalo Soldier who made this trip possible for all of us especially the children.

I want also to pay especial tribute to the energetic Birdman Ian for bringing the house down for his awesome energy and of course his lovely wife Homa for being so generous and gracious.

Special thanks to Mrs. Freemont for being unselfish teacher who brought all those kids to the Presidio Camp in order to learn about the wonderful history of Los Banos Buffalo Soldiers which is a true testimony of overcoming obstacles through positive thinking.
Special Thanks to Sterling Cook for serving Tacos to all kids.

Special Thanks to all the children who were there and spend time with my precious girl. She sends her regards to all of you. You were all, an awesome kids. You all rock!!!

Special Thanks to the world class bicyclist Thomas and his friend Vanessa for introducing me the history of the legend Allensworth and the rich history of Allensworth, CA.

In the end, Los BANOS buffalo Soldiers story is a true testimony of overcoming harsh and tough obstacles in life through positive thinking, resilience, and courage. They hold their head high despite all turmoil they went through. It is an inspiration to all mankind. The biography of Colonel Charles young sums up all we need to know about the characters of the Los Banos Buffalo soldiers (Positive Thinking). .

See you all next Year… J J J

T. Ward

On August 3, 2011

The Los Banos Buffalo Soldiers San Fransico Presidio Campout was FANTASTIC!

We learned so much in the first day alone, I wanted to bring a steno pad!
I really want to thank and congratulate Los Banos Buffalo Soldiers president Dave Ofwono and his crew for their hard work in making our Camp of the Presidio at San Francisco an unforgettable experience.
We were constantly educated and entertained about life at the San Francisco Presidio as a Buffalo Soldier.

The hiking/survival tours, campfire stories (with the smores!) Ranger Penn you are the greatest!

Lets not forget IAN aka BIRDMAN! You have an amazing talent to earn the trust of animals.

Educational films, the tents, military style breakfast all were in a fashion to constantly remind us of the sacrifices made by the soldiers who loved their country even though sometimes they did not love them back.

I salute Mr. Ofwono and company for a job well done. I support your effort to continue to also promote Colonel Charles Young another amazing individual.

Count me in for the next trek to Sequoia National from the Presidio.

Hope to see you guys again in Allensworth, CA

Regards and Much Respect
Tom Ward, Colonel Allensworth Posse

Stephen Hill, Sr

On May 2, 2010

Thank you for sharing the news about Private James Hall of the 24th Infantry. Many of the pioneers of Allensworth, California were members of the 24th Infantry; the town’s founder, Allen Allensworth was Chaplain of the 24th Infantry from 1886 to 1906. One of the streets in Allensworth is named after Charles Young.

Stephen Hill, Sr.
Friends of Allensworth
San Diego Chapter No 12
http://blogforallensworth.blogspot.com