Autographs
General Custer Orders the Arrest of 7th Cavalry Deserters
GEORGE ARMSTRONG CUSTER (1839-1876). Historic Civil War Union Brigadier General at age 23, he fought in nearly every battle of the Army of the Potomac, including Gettysburg, later to be killed and his troops annihilated by Sioux and Cheyenne warriors led by Sitting Bull and Crazy Horse at Little Bighorn.
April 15, 1875-Dated, Superb Content, Military Letter Signed, “G. A. Custer, Brevet Major General, USA Commanding Post” measuring 7.625” x 12.25” and floated and matted to an overall size of 15” x 19.75” for display. Boldly penned in deep brown upon very clean blue lined white wove period paper. The signature, “G. A. Custer” measures fully 2.75” long, being bold and prominent. Here, General Custer writes to the Commanding Officer at Fort Seward, D.T. (Dakota Territory). It reads, in full:

“Fort Lincoln, D.T. -- April 15, 1875

Commanding Officer, Fort Seward, D.T. ---

Two men belonging to the 7th Cavalry deserted from Fort Rice the night of the 13th, taking their horses and equipment with them. They may stop at your post or Jamestown, if so, please cause them to be apprehended!

The following is their description: Private Fred Trapand, Co.M., 7th Cavalry, age 25 years, 5 feet 8 incehs, fair complexion, brown eyes, brown hair, born in England - has a stopping wya of walking, when last seen he wore a rough thin whisker, shaved off at the chin - rode a cream colored horse. Private Lovett Meredith, Co.C., 7th Cavalry, age 23 years, 5 feet 8 inches high, Ruddy complexion, blue eyes, dark hair, rode a light sorrell horse, Star in forehead, Bushy tail, white legs. ---

(Signed) G.A. Custer, Brevet Major General USA - Commanding Post”.

With additional docket: “Maj. Carland Bismark”

Bismark was a city official who Custer had used to reclaim stolen grain that was stored in homes and warehouses in Bismark. An interesting Custer directive, as he was known to shoot deserters. Beautifully written and large bold signature, all in dark ink. Rare and absolutely superb.