New York, New York County, New York, soldier. New York, New York County, New York, native. Son of William Hoffman and Catherine Hoffman. Graduated from the United States Military Academy in West Point, Orange County, New York, in 1829. Served in the 6th United States Infantry Regiment as a second lieutenant, first lieutenant, captain, and major, from July 1, 1829 to February 20, 1852. Served in the 5th United States Infantry Regiment as major from February 20, 1852 to October 17, 1860. Served in the in the 8th United States Infantry Regiment as lieutenant colonel, from October 17, 1860 to April 25, 1862. Captured at San Antonio, Bexar County, Texas in February 1861. Exchanged on August 27, 1862. Served in the 3rd United States Infantry Regiment (U.S.A) as colonel from April 25, 1862. Served as commissary-general of prisoners in Washington, D.C. Subsequently brevetted major general of volunteers.
