Where Did Maya and King Travel in "S is for Soldiers"? A Journey to Meet the Harlem Hellfighters

In the exciting premiere episode of The Harlem Time Trotters, young listeners are transported alongside Maya, King, and their magical guide Wings to one of the most pivotal moments in African-American history. But when and where exactly did this adventure take place, and who did they meet? Let's dive into this remarkable journey through Harlem history.

Destination: Harlem, 1917

Through the magical Ancestral Circle, Maya and King travel back in time to Harlem in 1917—a year that would prove crucial in World War I and in the fight for racial equality. The twins arrive in Morningside Park, where they witness history in the making as brave soldiers prepare for deployment to Europe.

As Maya observes, 1917 Harlem looks completely different from the modern neighborhood they know. Horse-drawn carriages replace cars, and the streets buzz with the energy of a community on the brink of making history.

Meeting William Henry Johnson

In Morningside Park, Maya and King meet William Henry Johnson, a 25-year-old soldier training with the legendary 369th Regiment—better known as the Harlem Hellfighters. When the twins encounter Henry

When we think about World War I heroes, we often overlook one of the most courageous fighting units in American military history: the Harlem Hellfighters. In the debut episode of The Harlem Time Trotters podcast, young listeners travel back to 1917 Harlem to meet William Henry Johnson, a brave soldier whose story exemplifies the determination and heroism of the 369th Regiment.

Who Were the Harlem Hellfighters?

The Harlem Hellfighters, officially known as the 369th Regiment, made history as the first all-Black unit in the U.S. Army during World War I. Despite facing discrimination at home, these remarkable soldiers fought valiantly for their country, proving their courage on battlefields across Europe.

What made the Harlem Hellfighters truly special wasn't just their military prowess—many of them were also talented jazz musicians who introduced Europe to America's greatest musical export: jazz music. Their cultural impact was just as significant as their military contributions.

William Henry Johnson: A True American Hero

In The Harlem Time Trotters episode "S is for Soldiers," we meet William Henry Johnson, a 25-year-old soldier practicing combat drills in Morningside Park. Through the eyes of time-traveling twins Maya and King, listeners discover Johnson's struggle to perfect his baton techniques while facing the harsh reality that White soldiers refused to fight alongside Black troops.

Despite this discrimination, Johnson remained committed to his mission. As he tells the twins in the episode: "This is our home. Someone has to protect it—so why not us? We'll do whatever we can to keep our families safe."

Johnson's dedication paid off. After World War I, he became one of the first Americans to receive the French Croix de Guerre for his extraordinary bravery in combat. His heroic actions during a German raid in 1918—where he fought off numerous enemy soldiers while wounded—earned him the nickname "Black Death" among German troops.

The Legacy of the 369th Regiment

The Harlem Hellfighters spent 191 consecutive days in combat—longer than any other American unit during World War I. They never lost a trench, never lost a foot of ground, and never had a man captured. France awarded the entire regiment the Croix de Guerre for their exceptional service.

Their courage helped pave the way for the integration of the U.S. military. Today, Black and White soldiers fight side-by-side, a reality that exists in part because of the Harlem Hellfighters' sacrifices.

Fun Facts About the Harlem Hellfighters

They had a legendary jazz band: The 369th Infantry Regiment Band, led by James Reese Europe, was instrumental in spreading jazz throughout Europe. They performed for enthusiastic crowds wherever they went, making them cultural ambassadors as well as soldiers.

They spent more time in combat than any other American unit: The Harlem Hellfighters were in the trenches for 191 days straight—a record that still stands. They were so effective that they were assigned to fight under French command because American forces refused to fight alongside them.

Why This Story Matters for Black History and African-American History

The story of William Henry Johnson and the Harlem Hellfighters is an essential chapter in African-American history and Black history. It demonstrates how African Americans have always been willing to serve their country with honor, even when their country didn't always honor them in return.

Harlem history is filled with stories of resilience, creativity, and courage—and the 369th Regiment embodies all three. By sharing these stories through engaging content like The Harlem Time Trotters podcast, we ensure that young people understand the full scope of American history and the vital contributions of Black Americans.

Explore More Harlem History with The Harlem Time Trotters

The Harlem Time Trotters podcast brings Harlem history to life for young listeners, making complex historical events accessible and engaging. Each episode follows twins Maya and King as they travel through time to meet important figures in African-American history and learn valuable lessons about courage, perseverance, and identity.

Ready to join Maya and King on their next adventure? Subscribe to The Harlem Time Trotters and discover the incredible stories that shaped Harlem—and changed the world.

Want to learn more about the Harlem Hellfighters and other heroes of Black history? Stay tuned for more episodes of The Harlem Time Trotters, where history comes alive through adventure and imagination.

Harlem Roots offers comprehensive educational lessons that bring history to life for students of all ages. Designed to complement each thrilling adventure with Maya, King, and Wings, these curriculum-aligned resources help young learners explore the remarkable people, places, and events featured in The Harlem Time Trotters podcast series. From the courage of the Harlem Hellfighters to the artistic brilliance of the Harlem Renaissance, each lesson combines engaging activities, discussion questions, and historical context to deepen students' understanding of African-American history and Harlem's profound impact on American culture. Teachers and parents can use these materials to inspire curiosity, critical thinking, and a lifelong appreciation for the heroes who shaped our world.