Allensworth: Buffalo Soldier Interview

Well, Colonel Allensworth was a Buffalo Soldier himself! Colonel Allensworth joined the Navy during the Civil War and then joined the Union Army As a Chaplin for the 24th Infantry Buffalo Soldiers.

Colonel Allensworth was a fascinating individual whose contributions to our history reverberate to this day. He was born into slavery, escaped to join the union army and fight for the preservation of the Union, and through grit and determination, became the first African American to reach the rank of Colonel.

Following the Civil War, he continued to defy the odds and lay the foundation for the building of Black communities throughout the country, the first being the town of Allensworth.

The significance of Allensworth is tremendous. The town created a semblance of fairness and equality for a people that would not receive full recognition for at least another 60 years. It is important for people to understand and learn from Allensworth that truly remarkable, almost unthinkable, achievements can be made when you have a dream beyond the limitations that are placed on you.

The trains into Allensworth are important in two ways. First, they help people connect to this historically significant town. Public transportation options are critical for society. Amtrak offers such a comfortable ride, is reliable, and affordable particularly with each of the discounts available.

Secondly, taking the train into Allensworth adds to the historical experience of visiting the town. Part of the reason Colonel Allensworth chose this location was because of access to the early rail lines. By taking the train, you get the feeling like you are traveling back in time, just as many of the first settlers arrived.

They will! I will be representing Buffalo Soldiers in their truest form. You will find me along with my equestrian soldier (horse). We will discuss the equipment we had available, the rules and regulations we followed, and generally what our day-to-day life looked like and what we experienced. The Buffalo Soldiers faced many challenges but were dedicated individuals who overachieved under their current circumstances, just as Colonel Allensworth and the towns settlers did.

I encourage everyone who has an interest in the diverse history of California to visit the upcoming rededication on October 9^th. I encourage everyone to enhance that experience and convenience by taking the Amtrak San Joaquins.