Born in New Hampshire. A resident of Sauk Rapids, Benton County, Minnesota when he enlisted in the 3rd Minnesota Infantry for three years. Mustered in as 1st Lieutenant of Company B on 7 Nov 1861. Promoted to Captain on 1 May 1862. During the First Battle of Murfreesboro, Tennessee the Regiment surrendered on 13 Jul 1862, paroled and sent to Benton Barracks, Missouri. Commissioned Major on 13 Nov 1864 and transferred to Field and Staff (F&S). Commissioned Lieutenant Colonel on 25 May 1865 and mustered on 24 Jun 1865. Mustered out with the Regiment at DeValls Bluff, Prairie County, Arkansas and discharged at Fort Snelling, Minnesota. A member of Robert Anderson Post No. 19 of Aberdeen, Brown County, South Dakota where he served as Post Commander. He also served as Commander of the Department of South Dakota. Later became a member of Custer Post No. 6 of Tacoma, Pierce County, Washington. Died in Minneapolis, Hennepin County, Minnesota.
https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/135066879/james-baker-hoit