by Ruben "benny" Arredondo (Author)
More than a family story or biography, Ruben Arredondo's book is an important American Odyssey of an American family searching for a life dream. Through hard work, Spartan thriftiness, and discipline, the Arredondo family accomplished that American dream. Certain people have what it takes to succeed in life, but in a teenage boy it's rare to see the qualities that will make his life a success. Thirteen-year-old Jos Arredondo had the cleverness, drive, and work ethic to achieve his dream of owning his own rancho in Mexico. Despite horrors in the ambivalence and chaos of the Mexican Revolution in the 1910s, he set out to a new country, and through hard work and determination, he and his family helped contribute to the growth of America's railroad system and Mojave Desert prosperity and, in so doing, established a proud American family. This too is a story of overcoming obstacles and achieving more than Jos ever expected. And the family is still contributing to the American dream. But what about Jos 's rancho dream? Well, you'll just have to read this fine book, which will delight readers to the end: a railroad adventure, a detail of Mojave Desert life, a World War II history, and a success story-this book is a many-faceted read Includes numerous photos and the Arredondo Family Cookbook. -Clifford Walker author, historian, and long-time Mojave Desert resident Mojave Desert, Santa Fe Railway
Author Biography
Ruben "Benny" Arredondo was born August 28, 1930, the youngest of eight siblings. Benny attended Barstow Union High School in Barstow, CA, graduated from Orange Coast Junior College, served in the Army from l953-1955, and retired from Pacific Gas & Electric in 1989. This book is much more than just the story of Benny's father, José, growing up in Mexico, journeying to the United States, and serving in the Mexican Revolution. Benny personally saw the shortages and hardships of World War II, the patriotism of the local people, and he observed the glory days of Hinkley, CA. HE was active in Barstow community affairs, serving for 20 years with the Barstow Fire Department, 9 years with the Barstow Park and Recreation District, 9 years on the elected Southern Advisory Council for the Local 1245 IBEW Union, and for various lengths of time on other boards. This is his story. It is a must read for long-time residents of the Mojave Desert-particularly Barstow and Hinkley-railroad workers and their families. They will appreciate the many facts of years long past.