Pvt Farrand enlisted into the army on October 27, 1870, at Ft Gibson in the Indian Territory for 5 years. His listed civilian occupation was carpenter. He was described as 5'9", black hair, brown eyes with a ruddy complexion.

Between 1870 and 1873, Farrand was assigned to carpenter duties with Company C, 7th US Cavalry. Company C was commanded by two time Medal of Honor recipient Capt Tom Custer. Capt Custer was also the brother of LTC George Armstrong Custer.

In March of 1875, Farrand was assigned escort duties with Company C 7th US Cavalry at Ft Rice in the Dakota Territory. On Octber 27, 1875, his enlistment expired at Ft Lincoln, Dakota Territory. On November 10, 1875, Farrand reenlisted & remained with Company C.

At the Battle of the Little Bighorn Company C was attached to LTC Custer's battalion. Farrand was killed during the fighting.

After the battle many soldiers from Company C were found on what had been the flanks of Company L near Calhoun Ridge & Calhoun Hill. Farrand's unidentified remains were likely first buried where they had been found.

In 1881 all known battlefield burials were was reburied in the mass grave on top of Last Stand Hill.

James Farrand