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Yosemite National Park
Ranger Portrays a Buffalo Soldier

Yosemite National Park ranger Shelton Johnson portrays a Buffalo Soldier in this 5.5-minute video (courtesy of Hearst Castle Theater at the San Simeon State Historical Monument in California). In this clip of the theatrical production, Johnson's character recalls exactly when his father suggested that he join the Army and become a soldier as his life's path. Johnson, who has long studied the role of Buffalo Soldiers in the Sierra, presents research and personal reflections on a related Buffalo Soldiers website. Also, see Johnson's appearance in Ken Burns' upcoming documentary on the national parks to air on PBS in the fall of 2009.

 
Train traveling along the Merced River to Yosemite National Park.  

Did You Know?
Starting in 1907, the Yosemite Valley Railroad brought passengers bound for Yosemite Valley up the Merced River canyon to El Portal. From there, they would take stagecoaches to the Valley. Some of the old train cars are now on display in El Portal.

Last Updated: June 30, 2009 at 17:44 EST