George Armstrong Custer

NAME George Armstrong Custer

WHAT FAMOUS FOR  George Armstrong Custer is most famous for his military career during the American Civil War and his controversial role in the Indian Wars, culminating in his dramatic defeat at the Battle of Little Big Horn, known as "Custer's Last Stand."  

BIRTH Custer was born on December 5, 1839, in New Rumley, Harrison County, Ohio.  

FAMILY BACKGROUND  He was one of five children born to Emanuel Custer and Maria Ward, who were farmers of German descent. Emmanuel Custer also worked as a blacksmith.  

His younger brother Thomas Custer was the only soldier to win two congressional medals of honour during the Civil War. He joined his older brother’s regiment and also died at Little Big Horn.

CHILDHOOD  Custer grew up in a modest family. His adventurous spirit and determination shaped his future military career.  

The Custer household was known for its bustling atmosphere, even by 19th-century standards. Emanuel Custer, George's father, had a penchant for practical jokes, a trait that young George, nicknamed "Autie," would inherit. This playful environment likely contributed to Custer's mischievous nature and energetic personality.

At the age of four, Custer's father began taking him to militia meetings of the "New Rumley Invincibles," where the young boy would march behind the group, dressed in a brass-buttoned velvet suit. This early exposure to military life may have influenced his later career choices.

EDUCATION  Custer's education took place in several locations:

Monroe, Michigan: At age ten, Custer was sent to live with his married stepsister Anne Reed in Monroe, Michigan, to attend Stebbins Academy. This move was aimed at providing him with a better education.

Stebbins Academy: Here, Custer showed interest in sports, particularly excelling in wrestling and running, while also performing well in his studies.

Monroe Seminary: At fourteen, Custer attended the local seminary, where he began considering a military career.

Beech Point School: Before entering West Point, Custer worked as a teacher at this small village school in Monroe, where he was popular with his pupils.

McNeely Normal School: Custer also attended this institution, where he earned a teaching certificate

In 1857, with the help of local Congressman John Bingham and financial support from his family (his father sold the farm to raise money), Custer entered the United States Military Academy at West Point. 

His time at the academy was marked by his rebellious nature: He amassed a record 726 demerits, one of the worst conduct records in the academy's history. He graduated in 1861, ranking last in his class of 34 cadets. Despite this, the onset of the Civil War ensured a swift commission as a second lieutenant.  

CAREER RECORD  Custer quickly rose to prominence during the Civil War, participating in key battles such as Bull Run and Gettysburg. 

1861-62 Assigned to the second cavalry. Fought in the civil war as a captain.

1863 Given the temporary rank of Brigadier General.

1864 Given command of General Phillip Sheridan's Third Cavalry Division as a Major General, becoming the youngest U.S. Army officer to achieve the rank of major general. When the Civil War ended he returned to his regular rank of captain.

1866 Appointed Lieutenant Colonel of the 7th Cavalry Regiment and assigned to Kansas to engage in wars against the native Indians. 

1873 Ordered to Dakota territory to protect settlers and miners against the Sioux.

By age 23, he became the youngest U.S. Army officer to achieve the rank of major general. 

APPEARANCE  Custer was a striking redhead with a distinctive long mustache and flowing hair, earning him the nicknames "Yellow Hair" and "Long Hair" from the Sioux.  

Brevet Major General George Armstrong Custer in field uniform.

FASHION  Custer was known for his flamboyant, almost theatrical dress, favoring buckskin jackets and custom uniforms with unique accessories, such as a red cravat that emphasized his larger-than-life persona. This interest in presentation likely stemmed from his desire to stand out both on and off the battlefield.

CHARACTER  A charismatic leader, Custer had a reputation as a fearless and aggressive fighter. He was also deeply ambitious, prone to taking risks, and acutely aware of his public image.  

SENSE OF HUMOUR  Custer was known for his playful nature during his time at West Point, where he earned a reputation as a prankster. His penchant for practical jokes was evident throughout his life, showcasing a lighter side to his otherwise serious military career. This added to his reputation as a cavalier and approachable leader among his men.  

RELATIONSHIPS  George Armstrong Custer married Elizabeth "Libbie" Bacon on February 9, 1864, at the First Presbyterian Church in Monroe, Michigan. Their wedding came after a period of courtship that began when they met at a Thanksgiving social in 1862. Initially, Libbie's father, Judge Daniel Bacon, disapproved of the match due to Custer's humble background. However, he relented after Custer was promoted to Brevet Brigadier General, just prior to the Battle of Gettysburg. The ceremony was described as magnificent and was dubbed "the wedding of the century" in Monroe.

Libbie was a devoted partner, accompanying him on frontier expeditions and later preserving his legacy through her writings.  

George and Libbie Custer, 1864

MONEY AND FAME  George Armstrong Custer took out a $5,000 life insurance policy shortly before the Battle of Little Big Horn.

Custer would be called today a "media personality" who understood the value of good public relations—he frequently invited correspondents to accompany him on his campaigns, and their favourable reportage contributed to his high reputation that lasted well into the 20th century. 

FOOD AND DRINK  George Armstrong Custer, like many soldiers of his time, subsisted on a simple, hearty diet tailored to the harsh realities of frontier life.

When leading his troops into battle, Custer and his men relied on a core diet of hardtack, a dense, long-lasting biscuit, salt pork as a protein source, and coffee for much-needed energy. To supplement these rations, they often hunted game, such as deer or wildfowl, and occasionally received canned goods like beans or vegetables.

In more settled times, at military posts, the diet became slightly more varied. Basic carbohydrates like potatoes, peas, beans, or rice were common, along with hot beverages like coffee or tea. Simple seasonings such as sugar, vinegar, salt, and pepper added flavor to the meals. As an officer, Custer likely enjoyed additional privileges, such as access to tinned fruits and, when available, whiskey from sutlers (civilian merchants).

While not a gourmet's delight, this diet provided the necessary sustenance for Custer and his men to endure the rigors of frontier life. The focus was on practicality and durability, rather than culinary sophistication.

Custer was known for sharing his meals with his many dogs, which annoyed Libbie.  

MUSIC AND ARTS  George Armstrong Custer had a particular fondness for the song "Garryowen," which became closely associated with him and his cavalry units

Custer consolidated the musicians in his brigade into one Band. He kept these instrumentalists close, even during battle. During a retreat in the Shenandoah Valley, Custer had his band play on the skirmish line, performing "Yankee Doodle" and his favorite "Garryowen."

As his regiment departed for the Battle of Little Big Horn, the band played "The Girl I Left Behind Me."  

In the fall of 1863, Custer adopted a personal guidon (a type of flag), which was red over blue with white crossed sabers in the middle. This demonstrates his interest in visual symbolism and self-expression.

LITERATURE Custer was a voracious reader and enjoyed history and military biographies.

Custer maintained an extensive correspondence with his wife, Libbie. Their letters reveal not only their deep affection but also Custer's reflective side as he documented his experiences and thoughts during significant military campaigns

Custer documented his experiences in the Indian Wars in his book My Life on the Plains (1874). The autobiography helped shape his public image as a gallant cavalry officer.

Libbie Custer published several books, including Boots and Saddles (1885) and Following the Guidon (1891), which presented Custer as a heroic and romantic figure, solidifying his place in American mythology.

Numerous historians and novelists have tackled Custer’s story, from Evan S. Connell’s Son of the Morning Star (1984), which delves into the complexities of his life, to Larry McMurtry’s Custer (2012), offering a critical view of his legacy.

NATURE Custer enjoyed the outdoors, particularly during his campaigns in the West. He often led expeditions into uncharted territories, which were both professional duties and personal adventures that allowed him to explore the American landscape.

PETS  Custer had a deep appreciation for horses and dogs, keeping numerous pets that accompanied him on campaigns.  

Custer adored his dogs, including a white bulldog named Turk and a greyhound named Byron, who were his constant companions.  

Custer's numerous beagles, wolfhounds and foxhounds shared his food tent and bed to the annoyance of his wife.

HOBBIES AND SPORTS  Custer enjoyed horseback riding, hunting and fishing, pursuits aligned with his frontier lifestyle.  

SCIENCE AND MATHS  Custer had little interest in science or mathematics, as evidenced by his poor academic standing at West Point.  

PHILOSOPHY & THEOLOGY  George Armstrong Custer's spiritual journey was marked by a significant transformation. In his youth, he was known for a wild lifestyle and a lack of religious devotion. However, during the Civil War, he underwent a profound spiritual awakening, becoming a devout Christian.

Custer's newfound faith was central to his life. He renounced alcohol, committed himself to prayer, and believed in the divine protection of God. He carried a personal Bible, which he considered an essential item, even during military campaigns. This deep-rooted faith gave him courage and a sense of destiny, which he often credited for his bravery in battle.

While his Christian beliefs shaped his worldview, Custer's actions were also influenced by other factors. He was known for his aggressive military tactics and his personal ambition. He fought not only for his country but also for the advancement of his family members who served alongside him.

In conclusion, Custer's philosophy was a complex blend of religious faith and worldly ambition. His Christian beliefs provided him with a moral compass and a sense of purpose, while his military career and personal aspirations drove him to push the boundaries of conventional wisdom..  

POLITICS  While not a politician, Custer was a controversial figure in his interactions with Native American tribes, embodying the U.S. expansionist policies of his era.  

SCANDAL  Custer faced court-martial in 1867 for abandoning his post to see Libbie and other breaches of military protocol. Despite this, his career continued.  

MILITARY RECORD  Following graduation, Custer was unleashed into the chaos of the Civil War, Custer quickly proved he had a talent for two things: leadership and a devil-may-care disregard for self-preservation. At just 23—an age when most people today are still deciding what to do with their lives—he found himself promoted to brevet brigadier general, leading cavalry charges with such audacity that Union generals George B. McClellan and Alfred Pleasonton couldn’t help but take notice. At the Battle of Gettysburg in July 1863, Custer commanded the Michigan Brigade and, despite being wildly outnumbered, somehow managed to fend off General J.E.B. Stuart’s Confederate cavalry during the climactic third day of fighting. For a man who thrived in the saddle, it was one of his shining moments—equal parts heroic, foolhardy, and wildly effective.

In 1864, Custer joined Union General Philip Sheridan in a romp through the Shenandoah Valley during the Overland Campaign, taking on Confederate General Jubal Early and generally making life miserable for the crumbling Southern forces. By 1865, in the waning days of the war, Custer blocked General Robert E. Lee’s final retreat and was on hand at Appomattox Court House for Lee’s surrender—where he surely took great pride in being, once again, right at the center of history.

Following the war, Custer, now a lieutenant colonel, was sent westward to participate in the grim and tragic chapter known as the Indian Wars. His new job involved leading the 7th Cavalry against the Lakota, Sioux, and other Great Plains tribes who were understandably disinclined to surrender their lands and lives.

In 1876, Custer was involved in General Terry's expedition against the Sioux Native American tribes. He was ordered to scout ahead of the main force, Custer's regiment discovered a large Sioux encampment on the Little Bighorn River. Despite orders to wait for reinforcements, Custer, perhaps overconfident, led a premature attack on June 25, 1876.

The Sioux, far outnumbering Custer's force, launched a devastating counterattack. The entire 7th Cavalry regiment, including Custer, was annihilated in what became known as the Battle of the Little Bighorn. The only survivor from the battle was Comanche, Captain Myles Keogh's horse, who lived until 1893 and became a famous symbol of the tragic event.

The event would forever be etched in history as “Custer’s Last Stand”, a phrase that sounds almost romantic until you consider that it involved the total obliteration of Custer and his men.

HEALTH AND PHYSICAL FITNESS  Remarkably resilient in battle, Custer survived multiple engagements with only one minor wound, despite having 11 horses shot out from under him.  

HOMES  Custer and his wife Libbie lived in Quarters 21 at Fort Riley, Kansas from 1866 to 1867. While not the exact residence of the Custer family, the Custer House at Fort Riley offers a glimpse into the lives of 19th-century military officers. Preserved as a museum, it provides visitors with a tangible connection to the past. 

From 1873 until his death in 1876, Custer and Libbie lived in a house at Fort Abraham Lincoln, North Dakota. A reconstruction of this home is now available for tours

TRAVEL Custer relied heavily on horseback riding as his primary mode of transportation during his military career. His iconic cavalry charges, such as the one at the Battle of Gettysburg, where he famously rallied his troops with the cry "Come on, you Wolverines!", showcased his skill as a horseman.

In addition to horseback riding, Custer utilized various other modes of transportation to support his military operations. Wagon trains were a common method of transporting supplies for the Army, but their limitations in rough terrain and slow pace often hindered military movements. To overcome these challenges, Custer adopted the use of pack mules, which provided greater mobility and speed, especially in difficult terrain. This innovative approach proved crucial during his 1876 Little Bighorn Campaign.

Furthermore, Custer's military career involved the use of other modes of transportation, such as hot-air balloons and steamboats. During the Civil War, he served as a military observer, ascending in hot-air balloons to gain a strategic advantage. For larger-scale operations, like the 1874 Black Hills Expedition, steamboats were employed to transport supplies and personnel.

By effectively utilizing a combination of horseback riding, pack mules, hot-air balloons, and steamboats, Custer demonstrated his adaptability and understanding of the importance of mobility and speed in military operations, particularly in the challenging terrains of the American West.

DEATH  On June 25, 1876, during the Battle of Little Bighorn, Custer met his tragic end. While the exact circumstances of his death remain uncertain, accounts suggest that he sustained multiple wounds, including a gunshot and injuries inflicted by Native American warriors, particularly women. His body was found among those of his fallen comrades near the top of Custer Hill.

In the immediate aftermath of the battle, the soldiers of the 7th Cavalry conducted a hasty burial of their fallen comrades, including Custer. They were initially interred in shallow graves marked by wooden tipi poles. Custer's grave, however, was given a more prominent burial, deeper and longer than the others.

In 1877, Custer's remains, along with those of several other officers, were exhumed and reinterred at West Point Cemetery. A granite memorial was erected at the Little Bighorn battlefield in 1881, and over 240 white marble markers were placed to commemorate the fallen soldiers.

The Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument, which includes the Custer National Cemetery, stands as a poignant reminder of the tragic events and honors the memory of all who fought and perished in that fateful battle.

APPEARANCES IN MEDIA  Custer's life and death inspired numerous depictions in films, and songs.

Custer was a popular subject in early Hollywood. Errol Flynn famously portrayed him in They Died with Their Boots On (1941), a romanticized and highly fictionalized account of his life and death.

Ken Burns’ The West (1996) and PBS’s American Experience: Custer's Last Stand (2012) provide detailed explorations of his life and the events at Little Big Horn.

Custer was featured in episodes of TV Westerns like Bonanza and Death Valley Days.

The 1991 miniseries Son of the Morning Star, based on Connell’s book, offered a nuanced depiction of Custer, played by Gary Cole, and the cultural conflicts surrounding him.

Larry Verne’s novelty song, "Mr. Custer" (1960), which humorously depicted a soldier reluctant to follow Custer into battle, reached #1 on the Billboard charts, showcasing the enduring interest in his story.

Artists like Frederick Remington and Charles Marion Russell captured Custer’s frontier image, often in dramatic battle scenes.

The Custer fight (1903) by Charles Marion Russell

The Custer Battlefield National Monument (renamed the Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument) is itself a visual tribute to his infamous last stand.

Custer has appeared in video games like Sid Meier’s Civilization series, where he is sometimes referenced as a Great General.

The 1982 Atari game Custer’s Revenge infamously depicted a crude and offensive caricature of Custer, which sparked widespread controversy and condemnation.

ACHIEVEMENTS  Despite his controversial legacy, Custer remains a symbol of the frontier era. His battlefield tactics during the Civil War and his ability to cultivate public admiration solidified his place in American history.