Guest Book 2009

Name: Juerg Herzig, Switzerland
Date: 28 Dec 2009

Comments

hi all I just found our that recent recoveres KIA Vincent Charley or Vincent Charles in french was a origin from Lucerne, Switzerland. Do you have any other information regarding him, for example from where he came in the US? regards Juerg

12/29/09 Juerg: Great to hear from you all the way from Switzerland. I've sent you a detailed email regarding information I have on Vincent Charlie. Hope it helps. Regards, B.R.

P.S. You can see a photo of Charlie's marker. Jump here and scroll down to photo number 10A.

Name: Mike Wilson
Date: 14 Dec 2009

Comments

Great site! I have long been interested in LBH, but have only recently begun serious study. I am first reading some background into what lead up to the event before reading and studying maps on the actual events of June 1876. My brother visited LBH a few years back but it is still on my list of things to do. Hope to see you soon!

12/29/09 Mike: It's good to hear about a new LBH student. Keep reading and please return to our site to catch up on news from the battlefield. Hope you make it to the battlefield sooner rather than later. Regards, B.R.

Name: paul mendelson
Date: 11 Dec 2009

Comments

I have been a Little Bighorn "fan" for almost 60 years now. I hope to visit the site and surroundings within the next year or two. I have always sided with the Native Americans on this conflict----and still do. I just finished Joseph Marshall's, The End of the World at the Little Bighorn. This is a very scholarly account of the battle from the Lakota point of view and proceeds to describe life for the Lakota afterward to the present. I am disappointed that this book is not available.

12/12/09 Paul: I hope you do make it to the battlefield. Joe Marshall’s book is available. Go to our store – and you should see it under “Similar Items”. If not, then just type the title in the search box at the top of the page.

Name: Jam-Sa' Go-le-Ga
Date: 07 Dec 2009

Comments

Beautiful and informative site. Isn't it a shame that we can't have a list of the Native American's names. Watching the History Channel, many natives mention their Grandfather was there. Has anyone ever tried to build a roster of the natives ?

12/7/09 Jam-Sa' Go-le-Ga: Thank you for your interest. Compiling a fully complete and accurate list of the warriors who fought in the Battle of the Little Bighorn is a never-ending task. We publish the most complete and up-to-date list of the warriors as provided by the NPS and managed by Chief Historian John Doerner with assistance from Gary and Joy Gilbert. Jump here to go to our main page for all the different lists of soldiers and warriors. I’d recommend first reading “Background on the Project” by Gary and Joy Gilbert. Regards, B.R.

Name: Ann Schiavone
Date: 02 Dec 2009

Comments

I just wanted to express my appreciation for such a great site. I have not yet visited the battlefield, but it is on my list of things to do. Your website has great info. My great-great Grandfather (William E. Morris) fought with Reno's men, I was pleased to see him listed. Thank you!

12/3/09 Ann: Your kind words mean a lot. It’s always good to hear from people descended from soldiers or warriors who fought in the Little Bighorn. I sure hope you make it to the battlefield. When you do, please let the Park Rangers know who you are. Regards, Bob Reece

Name: Tim Bradshaw
Date: 24 Nov 2009

Comments

Bob, Your HDR photos are stunning! It is just like being there. Thanks for doing this.

11/24/09: I sure appreciate that, Tim. The photo from Last Stand Hill -- at the top of the page -- which includes the visitor center and the national cemetery with the last glow of the sunset on the right has become my favorite photo of all the photos I’ve taken of the battlefield for the last 28 years. It captures my feelings for that place more than any other photo. Regards, B.R.

Name: Montrew Gross
Date: 21 Nov 2009

Comments

We were present at the centennial ceremony in 1976. As we were traveling thru the West from Indiana we hadn't heard it announced that there might be trouble at the centennial. It was a very tense time for us when the Indians marched up the hill. Montrew

11/21/09 Montrew: I’m envious that you were able to attend the ceremonies at the battlefield on June 25, 1976. Not sure if you’ve read it, but Robert Utley describes that day in his memoirs, Custer and Me as well as on our website. Jump here to read about it. If you have the time, I’d love to hear more about what you remember from that day. Regards, B. R.

Name: John Myers
Date: 17 Nov 2009

Comments

I am currently in a pilgramage; which I hope will lead me to all of the Generals Battle fields. I have been to most all of the civil war sites and am planning to hit the western sites this summer. Thank you so much for your support of this great,but misunderstood soldier. Garryowen, Myers

11/21/09 You’re welcome, John. Thanks for joining our organization this week, we’re glad to see you become a member. Did you get all my emails and the attached newsletter? Regards, Bob Reece

Name: Robert Cruit
Date: 01 Nov 2009

Comments

In 2006 of Oct. I stepped back into history and for the first time I actually saw the site of the Little Big Horn Battle. I have read many a book on the Battle but newer really knew just how large the battlefield actually was. If I never get the chance to go back, the experience I felt that day will always be with me till the day I die. Friends of The Battle of the Little big horn I thank you for keeping the battlefield so others could come and see as I did. Custer finally got what he deserved but I do feel a little sadden that so many men had to die with the man who was seeking glory and got it...

11/01/09 Robert: Thank you for your kind words. Hope you can make it back to the battlefield some time soon. Regards, Bob Reece

Name: Angie (Roberts) Devine
Date: 28 Oct 2009

Comments

What a wonderful website! I visited the Battlefield in May of 2008 and was so deeply moved that words can not begin to express the feelings I had. My Great-great-great Uncle Henry is buried at the base of the monument (Henry Roberts) and it was so amazing to be able to connect with that part of my family history. Thank you.

11/01/09 Thanks for your compliments on our website, Angie. Looking inside Roger Williams brand new "Military Register of Custer's Last Command" he writes of Henry Roberts that he was born in London. He was a private in Company L enlisting in the U.S. Army on November 11, 1872 when he was 22 years old and joined CO L in October 1875. He stood 5' 9" tall, had blue eyes, light hair. He died with Custer's command. Regards, B.R.

Name: skip ellis
Date: 25 Oct 2009

Comments

my 5th greatgrandfather m.l.greene was at the battle i would like to find the muster role for the 7th i need it for research e mail is ellis_skip@yahoo.com thank you

11/01/09 Skip: We do have the soldiers listed on our site. Jump here. Regards, B.R.

Name: linda
Date: 07 Oct 2009

Comments

Hi there i have always been interested in the little big horn these are great photos i hope to be visiting the site when i visit the usa once again thanks.

11/0/109 Hope you get here soon, Linda. Good luck. B.R.

Name: DL Cline
Date: 06 Oct 2009

Comments

I have learned that the photos mentioned here were not taken by my great-grandfather. Also, his obituary claims he scouted for Custer's army 3 years before the massacre. If anyone has any information regarding Custer's scouts around the time of the Black Hills Expedition, I would appreciate any help- Thanks!

Name: DL Cline
Date: 21 Sep 2009

Comments

Hello, My Great Grandfather was named Wayne Scott. He was a founder of Pitkin, Colorado in 1879 and was originally from Kansas. He died in 1913 and his obituary claims he scouted for Custer around the time of the Washita battle. In the book " The Custer Album" by Dr. lawrence Frost, there are two photos of the Washita battle taken by a W.S. Scott in 1890. I have no other information to prove or disprove the obituary, other than his age and residency in the Kansas area fit the time line. Any help or further information would be grately appreciated ! DL Cline sgtcline@yahoo.com

11/0/09 Hope you find the answers, DL. Good luck and thanks for posting. Maybe someone will be able to help. B.R.

Name: eddie scott
Date: 17 Sep 2009

Comments

Would appreciate receiving information scott53@llnl.gov

9/17/09 Eddie: Sent you an email. Regards, B.R.

Name: Richard Wilkes
Date: 10 Sep 2009

Comments

Just to let you know that I did take a look at the Web Site after I got back to England. Looks very interesting and I'll be sure to take a more detailed look sometime soon. Regards, Richard Wilkes. (The guy you served to a selection of books one evening about two weeks ago and who explained that he was attending the OCTA (Oregon Californis Trails Association) Convention there in Loveland. Thanks.

9/10/09 Richard: I remember our visit. Hope your travels over the Oregon Trail went well. If you have any questions while visiting our website, please drop me a line. Just click on Contact at the bottom of each page. Also, you might consider joining us on Facebook to keep up to date with news from Friends and/or the battlefield. Just click on the Facebook icon at the bottom of every page. Regards, Bob

Name: James B. Caffrey
Date: 30 Aug 2009

Comments

This is a great informative site that I just happened to stumble upon when researching the Battle of Little Big Horn. May the brave men of this conflict rest in peace. They are with their maker. Thank you for this exceptional research tool that helped me to understand how things were.

9/10/09 James: Thank you for your kind words regarding our website. It’s good to hear that it has benefited you in your studies. Hope you revisit often. Regards, B.R.

Name: Lorne Saylor
Date: 21 Aug 2009

Comments

There have been hundreds of photos taken of the Civil War. How come none seem to exist of general Custer's last battle aftermath?

8/23/09 Lorne: That’s a good question and the answer is simple; Custer had one reporter with him for his final campaign but no photographer. Additionally, no photographer covered any of the columns that were involved in the Sioux/Cheyenne War of 1876. During the summer of 1877, the first photographer that visited Custer’s battlefield was John Fouch. You can see some of his photos as well as photos from later visits of other photographers in our section, “The Changing Faces of Last Stand Hill”. Regards, B.R.

Name: lee lyon
Date: 10 Aug 2009

Comments

Hello everybody and let me say what a great site. I have been so lucky as a British soldier to be able to visit Custer Battlefield and also visit the Black Hills. What I want to know is where I can find a site on Custer paintings as I have 1 that is number 37 of only 50 ever done and it is all signed. It does not really fit in with my house anymore and it is an investment for my children so if anyone is interested the please e-mail me. leapylyon4@hotmail.co.uk Many thanks

8/23/09 Lee: Thanks for the kind words regarding our site. I'm not aware of a website that showcases Custer art, but someone else might. If so, they're welcome to post the link on this page. It might help if you can tell us who the artist is. Thanks, B.R.

Name: d howse
Date: 31 Jul 2009

Comments

I have an old snuff box which legend has it that it came from an American soldier in Victorian times. it is marked john hiley,on the reverse is 3 drums a flag and what looks to be 6 spears. I wonder if it is the same john hiley as mentioned on this website.

Who knows.

Name: Tom Donohue
Date: 27 Jul 2009

Comments

I have been fascinated by Custers last stand since I wrote a school essay back in the 60s about this subject. Michaels documentary in 2007 is superb and the most in depth account I have ever seen. I am hopeful that I can finally make a trip to Montana to see the site where this actually took place.

8/23/09 Tom: I hope you can make it to the battlefield as well. Thanks, B.R.

Name: Ron Kennedy, NE
Date: 26 Jul 2009

Comments

The pictures displayed on the site by Bob Reece brought tears to my eyes.

8/23/09 Ron: I sure appreciate you taking the time to share how these photos had an impact on you. I’m not sure if you were referring to the recent High Dynamic Range photos or not. I love HDR because it seems the best form of photography to capture the mood of the battlefield. Have you ever visited the battlefield? Thanks, Bob

Name: Peter Lehmann
Date: 25 Jul 2009

Comments

Bob S. the parent cartridge of the .44-40 (.44 caliber/40 grains black powder) is the .44 Rimfire used in the .44 Henry Rifle and the Remington Army Revolver. The cartridge casing is less than 1'' in length,,, so that leaves the .44-40 as the alternative. This cartridge came out in 1873 and to this day accounts for more deer shot, except for the 30-30 Winchester. The cartridge by the way, became an instant success and some troopers and Indians had repeating arms chambered in this caliber. Hope this helps you out some. Regards, Peter :)

Name: Peter Lehmann
Date: 25 Jul 2009

Comments

Since a small boy I have heard about relatives being at the Custer Last Stand. Is it possible to find out if Fred and Henry Lehmann were from N.Y. State or Indiana, since I have family there. Any help would be deeply appreciated from Langley B.C. Canada, July 25th,,, thanks :)

8/23/09 Peter: Thanks for contacting us and thank you for answering Bob S. question dated July 21st. I checked on Frederick Lehman and Henry Lehmann for you. I do not believe the two were related. Frederick’s last name has one “n” while Henry’s has two. If you were related to these men, then Henry is probably the best chance. Frederick was born in Berne, Switzerland in 1848 but I do not know what area of the U.S. he came from. He did enlist in Louisville, if that helps. Henry looks more promising. He was born in Berlin in 1839. Like Frederick, I don’t know what part of the U.S. Henry came from; however, he enlisted in New York City on November 11, 1872. Hope this helps. Regards, Bob

Name: Amanda Hoyle
Date: 23 Jul 2009

Comments

I had a Question I was hoping someone could help me with. I came across a tombstone and some info and I would like to know if it true. There's a grave in Martins Creek Cem. in ERwin TN That's marked William Harrison. Additional info says "b. abt. 1870? - d. March 8, 1929 "Chief Little Bear" [parents unknown - aka Sioux Indian Medicine Man] Note: claimed to be the nephew of Sitting Bull of Little Bighorn; Sold herbal treatments to local residents of Erwin; He was stabbed in the abdomen by a fellow resident and sent to the Erwin hospital to get stitched up during which time he encountered a fight with his physician. Subsequent to the brawl with the Dr., Police through William Harrison in jail where he was allegedly beaten by police. Near death he was transferred to Johnson City for treatment where he died shortly thereafter. Erwin sympathizers collected money to pay for his burial and tombstone]" Dould any of this be true?

8/23/09 Might be true, but I cannot verify. Thanks, Bob

Name: Bob S
Date: 21 Jul 2009

Comments

Name: Bob S Date: 08 Jul 2009 Comments Looking for info on the shell casings I saw in the museum. They were approx 1 1/2 inches long, a reddish bronze color, and most of them had the open end smashed down. Not sure what caliber they are or why the end was smashed. Thank you for any info you can give me.

Name: emmet ocoonnell
Date: 16 Jul 2009

Comments

Geoff, imagine an honest politician. Custer as president now that would really have opened a can of worms he would definitely have put a spin on the countries resources. I really enjoyed our banter and we are not the first Aussie and Irish man to disagree with one another but I really enjoy the history of the Indians and the Cavalry and you are the same but that is the thing with Custer he really gets inside your head and although there are parts of what I have read about him I would not like the other sides of his character are of a man that knew know fear and one that would look after his family and friends but also say out things that needed saying. Geoff best of luck against the All Blacks on Saturday.

Name: geoff the aussie
Date: 16 Jul 2009

Comments

well said emmet.. its my belief that if he was successful @ the little big horn he would have won the democratic nomination for president of the united states.....I feel he would have been an honest president to say the least...he disliked corruption and he would have done 1 helluva job trying to clean out the undesirables within the government at that time....and yes I wouldn't have wanted to be opposite him in battle...

Name: emmet o'connell
Date: 15 Jul 2009

Comments

Geoff, I don't think that we are a million miles away on our opinion on George Custer although he was arrogant I would not consider him ignorant or a bigot Did Custer abandon Elliott, he did send out scouts to find him and these scouts reported back that there were Indians closing in so I would suggest he made his way out of the Washita battle field to save the remainder of his command although I will admit that his accounts of the number of warriors killed was completely incorrect. His court martial was for leaving his command with out permission and how many Brevet Generals in the United States Army have been court martialed for that. Custer was no angel but he was not the idiot that some people are claiming he was, the Indian wars were brutal with both sides when the opportunity arose would inflict as much damage as the other. the reason I admire Custer is that if I had to fight in a conflict like that then I would rather have him with me than against me.

Name: geoff the aussie
Date: 15 Jul 2009

Comments

and with respect emmet they went facing each other...Custer attacked before dawn while the village was asleep...he also abandoned major Elliot and 15 troopers who were later found all dead.....also Custer was court martialled...not to many officers in the history of the united states with the rank of brevet major general have faced court martial...

Name: geoff the aussie
Date: 15 Jul 2009

Comments

emmet yes he took prisoners but interesting that he mentioned in his official report to Sheridan that he killed hundreds of warriors? actually it was 32 warriors killed...the rest were women & children butchered by the hundreds.. but I guess since he was such an honorable commander then no need to lie about a people he respected??? emmet I never said that Custer was a bad commander. he was dashing , brave and daring but I rank him along with the likes of colonel Chivington colonel nelson miles lieutenant Grattan general Harney captain Fetterman etc... all these so called fine officers had a few things in common.. arrogance , bigotry and ignorance...

Name: emmet oconnell
Date: 14 Jul 2009

Comments

His performance at the Washita was a disgrace ? well Geoff maybe you can explain to me when two opposing sides face each other with the intention two wipe the other side completely out then is that not a disgrace. War is hell and it will always be hell and by the way did Custer not take prisoners at the Washita so maybe he was not as bad a commander as you portray and again I reiterate that he was no different from any commander at that time except that he was always at the front like all great soldiers.

Name: geoff the aussie
Date: 13 Jul 2009

Comments

emmet he was a good soldier but not a great 1...in the words of Doug Macarthur...good commanders don't produce high casualties.. the casualties under Custer during the civil war were appalling but I admit it just seemed to be that kind of war.. his performance at the battle of the Washita was a disgrace.. the respect he showed that day was amazing.(sarc)

Name: emmet oconnell
Date: 13 Jul 2009

Comments

Yes Geoff he had great respect for the Indians,contary to your subtle remark Custer greatly admired all the Indian tribes and as a professional soldier his record speaks for it self Custer, he will mostly be remembered for the Little Big Horn but when you study the man then even you will have to admit that he never asked a soldier under his command to do nothing he would not do him self and I am sure if he was born an Indian then he would have counted plenty of coup.

Name: geoff the aussie
Date: 12 Jul 2009

Comments

to emmetoconnel.. yes emmet , Custer showed the great respect he had for the American Indian at the battle of the Washita... terrific site bob

Name: emmetoconnell
Date: 12 Jul 2009

Comments

Bob, your rebuttal of Milch was correct, the point I was making was that everybody has an opinion but if you make a comment about an individual then you should at least take the time to research the individual first maybe it might plug sales of your DVD but it still does not make it right. Deadwood was a great TV show that I really enjoyed and it would have been a success even with out this unfounded comment. Keep up the excellent work this web site is brilliant.

8/23/09 Thanks for the compliment Geoff and Emmet. B.R.

Name: Bob S
Date: 08 Jul 2009

Comments

Looking for info on the shell casings I saw in the museum. They were approx 1 1/2 inches long, a reddish bronze color, and most of them had the open end smashed down. Not sure what caliber they are or why the end was smashed. Thank you for any info you can give me.

8/23/09 Bob: Looks like Peter answered your question on 7/25. B.R.

Name: emmetoconnell
Date: 08 Jul 2009

Comments

The comment about Custer being a psycho, Custer was a man of his time. he did not wish to be wealthy he only wanted to be a soldier and soldiers up to this very day obey orders. Custer had a great respect for Native Americans and put his military career in danger by speaking out in Washington about the treatment of the Indians and also he wrote in his book My Life on the Plains that he would rather live as a free Indian than receive hand outs from the government. Every body is entitled to there opinion but to call a man a psycho for doing his job well I could not agree with this and this article is both unfair and untrue.

7/8/09 Emmet: I'm not sure if you're saying the article I wrote as a rebuttal to David Milch's comments regarding Custer is unfair, or the comment left in this guestbook by the poster, "Milch was correct, Custer was a psychopath" on 7/2/09 is unfair. Did you read my article in full? Regards, BR

Name: Randolf Kern
Date: 05 Jul 2009

Comments

Dear Mr.. Reece, your website is fantastic and have never ending information about LBH. Is there a photo from the grave of Sitting Bull and are you able to publish it on your website? With kind regards A admirer of SB Randolf Kern, Germany

7/5/09 Randolf: Thanks for the kind words about our website. I do not have a photograph of Sitting Bull’s gravesite; however you can see photos of it at the Sitting Bull Memorial Foundation website. We hope you’ll return often to our website.

Name: Antonio Amoruso
Date: 05 Jul 2009

Comments

dear Mr. Reece, do you know the book " the Mystery of E troop" by Mr. Gregory Michno? I don't understand which is the mystery. excuse me for my English. best regards.

7/5/09 Antonio: Yes, Mr. Michno’s book is fascinating. Basically, he tries to make the argument that the 28 missing troopers of Custer’s command did not die in the Deep Ravine (as we know it) but in Cemetery Ravine which runs between the Deep Ravine Trail and the Custer National Cemetery. The mystery Mr. Michno refers to is the fact that we still have not found the missing troopers. Personally, I believe that the missing troopers are in the Deep Ravine because of archeology, maps made from actual witnesses that saw the dead troopers, and soldier accounts.

Name: Milch was correct, Custer was a psychopath
Date: 02 Jul 2009

Comments

I'm not sure what history books you're reading but from all accounts that I've read over the years Custer was indeed a over-confident cocky psychopath. He defines that word. This seems like a skewed web site on the worst military blunder in U.S. History. We should be ashamed. ~William R.

7/4/09 I would agree that Custer was over-confident but not psycho. Since the Friends inception, our goal has always been to tell the story of the Battle of the Little Bighorn as told from both sides -- Indian and soldier – and as truthful and accurately as possible. With that, Friends sometimes gets hammered by both sides instead of one. I encourage everyone to read the article this reader found questionable. Happy July 4th everyone.

Name: Ron Rigell
Date: 27 Jun 2009

Comments

........on June 22, my girlfriend and I began txking each other as if I was G.A. Custer and she was Libbie......she lives in Austin and I in Houston. We both maintain our employment and homes in each locale.... We started at the Sweetheart Creek where Libbie last met with her Audie....where perhaps they last made love. The txk continues on and on until the 7th is camped along the banks of the Rose Bud creek, the night of June 24.......and a final letter from Audie to his Libbie..."my love I feel the excitement of a coming battle, the signs are that of a large group of "roamers"..I know not how many, but I know our boys can handle them...you must know, per chance, if your "boy"does not return ...that in my short life I have known you and your love......and I know where I will go I will wait for you and you for me.....my love to you my sweet loving Libbie, your Audie PS Please allow this note, I know this is fiction to a point, but today is my Libbie's 50 birthday..and her Audie wishes her the best and greatest day of all........I love you Dawn, Ron

Name: mike rano
Date: 15 Jun 2009

Comments

Splendid job, if not this year , in 2010 my wife and I will visit the legendary place, and that is what it is and nothing less!

7/4/09 Mike: I'll see you on Last Stand Hill. B.R.

Name: Steven Hazel
Date: 05 Jun 2009

Comments

I'm most confused by Red Thunder's claim that Crazy Horse was his great grand father. All research and written records say he had one child, a daughter who died at age 2 or 3. Even the Sioux who knew him say this is true.

Name: Sonny Baughman
Date: 05 Jun 2009

Comments

Hi im trying to find my Grandmother Dad, who was sopose to be one of Custer Chocktaw scoot who Died at the little Big Horn (Thomas James Aynes) I have a litter from her siter daughter saying she has hes metel. Do you know where I can find out this info. Thank you Sonny Baughman (sonnybaughman@yahoo.com) Grandmother (Cathern Aynes)

7/4/09 Sonny: I checked the rosters of all the columns that fought in the Sioux/Cheyenne War of 1876 and cannot find a Thomas James Aynes. Also, the scouts with Custer were either Crow or Arikara. B.R.

Name: amanda pepe
Date: 30 May 2009

Comments

any other info on the martini who had message we wonder if we are related my mother in law was a martini any info greatly appreciated

7/4/09: Can you be more specific on what you need?

Name: Pauline
Date: 24 May 2009

Comments

I must agree with a previous poster who called his visit to the battlefield, "spellbinding"!! That is a perfect word to describe my feelings. I get lost in the history, the lives of the men, and the overwhelming sadness of those left behind on both sides of this battle. I have been fascinated with the battle since visiting the site in Montana in the 1960's with my family when I was a teenager. My husband and I visited again in 2003 and I renewed my intense interest in studying exactly what happened there. I have purchased and read many, many books covering all aspects of the lives of Custer, his men, and the battle itself. I know I will continue to check back with your website as I find it thrilling to keep discovering facts which I had not known before. Thank you for your excellent site and keep up the great work!

5/30/09 Pauline: Thank you for the purchase of your books via our website. They'll give you years of intellectual stimulation while helping Friends help the battlefield that we all find so spellbinding. Hope we'll see you back there again real soon. Regards, B.R.

Name: Fr. John P. McBride, SJ
Date: 23 May 2009

Comments

I was a platoon Lieutenant with Easy Co, 7th Cavalry during the Korean War and have been a member of the 7th Cavalry Korean War Veterans for some time. I joined with a group of vets to visit the Battlefield for the 125th anniversary. Both the visit and the reenactment were superbly done. The Cavalry Association made a significant donation for the erection of the Native American monument as a sign of peace.

5/23/09 John: It is indeed an honor to have you comment in our guestbook. We very much appreciate your service to our country. The 7th took a beating during the Korean War, but the 7th came back to give back and did so with fortitude and honor. Thank you for your support of the Indian Memorial. Warm Regards, Bob Reece

Name: Lorne Saylor
Date: 14 May 2009

Comments

We have visited the battlefield many times and always find it spellbinding. Your work at the site is amazing. Thank you for always answering my questions that I have from time to time.

5/23/09 Lorne: The battlefield most definitely has that power over an individual when visiting. Thank you very much for your kind words regarding our website. We do appreciate everyone writing and we try to answer all of the correspondence, but sometimes we are not able to due to time constraints. Regards, B. R.

Name: Surprised
Date: 04 May 2009

Comments

I joined your group in July of last year and have, to date, been sent ONE newsletter. ONE. Nothing more. Thanks, really, for your truth in advertising. I will join a different group now and HOPE that they are more on the ball.

5/4/09: I wish you had provided contact information, so I can better communicate with you. I have no idea if we might have your mailing address wrong. Our next newsletter is being mailed this week.

Truth in advertising? I’m not sure how you can claim we have done otherwise. You need to be more specific. You’ve posted in the guestbook of our website which means you visit our site. Please, look around our website which includes over 5,000 files. Do you see any forced pop-up ads that you have to deal with? Are you bombarded with any unwanted ads? No. Our website has been online for almost 10 years and in that entire time, we have never forced our visitors to deal with ads. Heck, the whole site is free for you to enjoy 24 hours a day. How do you think we pay for all of this?

Receiving two to three newsletters a year is the norm for our members with membership dues starting at only $15.00 a year. Our membership dues have not increased since the beginning of this organization. People living around the globe can join Friends for the same amount in dues. We do not charge additional membership fees for our international members because we want them to enjoy being part of a cooperating association of the National Park Service as someone from Texas or Washington.

I’m sorry you feel you need to join another group, but believe me; you will pay more for that privilege. You might receive an extra newsletter a year, however, your membership -- with whomever you choose to join -- will not directly support the Custer Battlefield as ours does. You will not be provided exclusive up to date news from the battlefield. The Friends board works directly with the superintendent of the battlefield and his/her division managers. The superintendent and some of the division managers attend each and every Friends board meeting, so we have a unique opportunity for dialogue with the managers of the Monument that every other Custer or Little Bighorn organization does not have. Therefore, as a member, you have access to the board and a voice to be heard by the NPS for reasonable requests. Whoever leads the other organization(s) that you join does not have that opportunity.

Again, you have posted a negative comment without revealing who you are which makes it impossible for me to answer any specific questions or concerns you might have about Friends. It is very easy to reach me. At the bottom of every page is a Contact button which enables you to send an email.

I’m sorry to lose your membership, however I’m more than confident that Friends provides many benefits to its membership from discounts on products to this free award winning website.

Regards, Bob Reece

Name: Bec
Date: 30 Apr 2009

Comments

Where can I find a witness account from Custers army from the battle of little big horn? Any information would be helpful. Thank you.

5/7/09 Bec: If I understand your question correctly, any book on the Battle of the Little Bighorn will cover witness accounts. However, the only person from Custer's five companies to observe Custer's battalion near the end was the Crow scout, Curley. There are plenty of witness accounts from the surviving seven companies that fought in the Valley Fight and the Hilltop Fight. Of course, there are tons of Indian accounts from the warriors who fought all 12 companies including Custer's battalion. Visit our bookstore to learn more. Regards, B.R.

Name: Cathy
Date: 29 Apr 2009

Comments

My family visited the battlefield in 1972, and we're thrilled to see that it's been updated to reflect both sides of history. My parents and I have spent the last hour perusing your fantastic website--and we've hardly scratched the surface. What an incredible amount of information and it's so well presented! Kudos to you all for providing this outstanding resource. My mom has presented programs about the battle over the years, but your site has provided much new info. Thanks so much for all your good work! Cathy, Iowa

5/7/09 Cathy: It's great to hear how much you enjoyed our website. It's been almost 10 years in the making and still growing. It becomes more challenging to make any major changes to the site considering the vast amount of files encompassed inside it. We hope you return often and please consider joining Friends of the Little Bighorn Battlefield. Regards, B.R.

Name: Connie
Date: 28 Apr 2009

Comments

As a young girl my father (who secretly wished he were Native American) would take us on an annual visit to the battlefield. He has been dead for nearly 25 years, I just learned his wish had always been to be buried at the Custer Battlefield Cemetery. Well, this is now out of the question however I am curious if there is the possibility of making a memorial donation.

4/29/09 Connie: It sounds like you had great trips with your father. My father always took us somewhere historical during our vacation. We do have a memorial donation capability. Just go to our Point, Click and Give section to learn how. Thank you so much for your interest. Warm Regards, Bob Reece

Name: Dr. Paul James - Saskatchewan
Date: 16 Apr 2009

Comments

I believe I am a relative of William James who was killed in the battle - he came from the same small Welsh village that my great grandfather came from. I visited the battlefield 2 years ago and it was truly memorable. I intend to return one day. Thank you for conserving this important part of history.

4/29/09 Paul: You're very welcome. BR

Name: Relative of Jacob Adams
Date: 15 Apr 2009

Comments

I would like to know if their are any descendants of “Cankuhanska” (Long Road), Sans Arc Lakota Sioux warrior?

4/29/09: I'm not sure. I don't recall any being in attendance during the unveiling of his marker in 2001.

Name: Professor Richard M. Luppi
Date: 09 Apr 2009

Comments

A courageous website which seeks to separate myth from fact about a controversial event so deeply rooted in the American conscience which will always define the American western experience. Professor Richard Luppi, great-grandson of Corporal John Lindon Reynolds and great-great grand nephew of Musician John McLennon of the 7th U.S. Infantry, part of the Montana Column under the command of Colonel John Gibbon.

4/9/09 Richard: thank you for taking the time to post these nice comments. We work hard to share this remarkable story of one of the last great battles fought during the Plains Indian Wars, so it's good to receive such positive feedback. Regards, B.R.

Name: sharon
Date: 07 Apr 2009

Comments

After helping my granddaughter with her school project about "Crazy Horse" or Curly. I was so excited to see a photo of him, well, what some say is him. I don't see the light hair and light skin. All the information that we uncovered it is hard to believe the photo is of "Crazy Horse". Sure hope it is.

Name: KIm Meyers "Mr Ab"
Date: 26 Mar 2009

Comments

I was a friend of Erics,sent to me via Dwigh Brainard.Eric stayed at my house in San Antonio while drawing the Alamo painting. Eric would get up at 4am and get in his camper and go to the original site to see the sun rise over the battlefield. At night we would play guitars and sing. He wrote me a song entitled "The Alamo", which I believe no one has seen. Too his daughter I would gladly show it. I am so sorry for your loss, as well as the rest of us.

4/9/09 Thanks for writing, Kim. I'll always miss Eric von Schmidt. After two years, it's difficult to believe he's gone. His painting, "Here Fell Custer" --which is the banner on top of each page of this website-- stands out above all the others.

Eric's family is well aware of his song, "The Alamo". It's a wonderful piece that tells the story of the men who defended the Alamo and its fall. The last verse and chorus reads:

They charged ‘em once and they charged ‘em twice, at a fearful loss of men. There cannon ball had breached the wall and then they charged again.

As the bloody tide, it swept inside, it was fighting hand-to-hand. Bayonet with Bowie knife met, as each man took his stand.

And as they died, they cursed and they cried, the terrible dawn it rose. They’d come from all over Ameri-cay, they’d come from Mexico.

And when the fight was over and the funeral pyre did glow, Well, there’s no one here and there’s no one there, who’ll forget the Alamo.

Chorus / Take off your buckskin jackets and give your bones a rest. And, we’ll all remember The Alamo and the boys who stood the test.

Years ago, Eric sent me a demo recording of the song. He was apologetic for the sound because he never produced a studio recording. When Eric was finishing his painting, "The Storming of the Alamo" in San Antonio, he would visit the real Alamo at dawn to observe the sunrise effects upon it. The high rise buildings surrounding The Alamo prevented much of the morning sunlight from falling upon its adobe walls. In frustration, Eric set off for Bracketville to visit the set of John Wayne's 1960 film, "The Alamo" where he could sit and observe the sunlight upon its fake chapel. While in Bracketville, Eric would perform his song about the fall of the Alamo each night in the cantina that was used in Wayne's film. While there -- on stage performing the song -- Eric coined the term "Wayneamo" for John Wayne's set.

Eric stamped the lyrics of his song under the print of "The Storming of the Alamo" which accompanies that masterpiece beautifully.

Today, the original 10 X 23 feet "The Storming of the Alamo" hangs in the student library of the Incarnate Word University in San Antonio.

Regards, B.R.

Name: susan campbell
Date: 14 Mar 2009

Comments

This may or may not sound crazy to some,but after some research i have finally found some proof as to who Black Bear really is after being told by a very reliable medium/clairvoyant that he is in fact my spirit guide,and now i find from ur site that he also goes by the name Closed Hand,i would be very interested to know if there is any other info on him? Thanx

Name: emmet o'connell
Date: 12 Mar 2009

Comments

Hi Bob, You are quiet correct it should be Sitting Bull's family that would make this decision.

Name: Albert P. Fagerberg
Date: 12 Mar 2009

Comments

IT was refreshing to read a book written by Fairfax Downey.Who knew soldiers that fought in the Indian Wars,and told their story undistorted by political correctness that now changes history to appease our now multi-cultural society. That book is Indian Fighting Army. I recommend reading this book to get a more balanced opinion of the the Indian Wars in the west.

Name: BDrew12869@aol.com Bob Drew
Date: 11 Mar 2009

Comments

I visited the battlefield several years ago with the intent of paying my respects to those on both sides who had fought and died. It was a moving experience. I well remember the museum and the store and am writing to ask if anyone knows of the inscription on one wall of the museum that reads something like "It is our responsibilty to Christianize the indians"--I believe the words of one of our U.S. Presidents. Can anyone clarify this for me. What are the exact words--and what U.S. President uttered them?

3/11/09 Bob: I am not aware of any inscription with those words on the wall, but I could be mistaken. The only inscription I can recall is on the outside wall of the visitor center. It is a quote from Black Elk: "Know the Power That is Peace." Regards, Bob

Name: Kathryn Ripke
Date: 10 Mar 2009

Comments

I am doing research into family history and have found evidence my great great uncle fought at the Battle of Little Bighorn. His obit says this was the case and his name appears as a Pvt. in Co. C. of the 17th Infantry in the book "Little Big Horn, 1876" by Loyd J. Overfield. When I looked for his name in your comprihensve list of people involved in the battle, I did not find him. His name is Sanford F. Brown. Can you shed any light on his involvement? He died in 1903 in Wisconsin and was born in 1853 in NY. He enlisted in 1873 in Detroit, MI. Thank you for any help you can give me.

3/11/09 Kathryn: There was a Sanford Brown in Company C, 17th Infantry. His company was part of Terry and Gibbon's soldiers that entered the valley of the LBH on June 27, so they did not fight at at the LBH. You can find him listed in our "Soldiers and Warriors" section of this website under Roster - Sioux War in the Dakota Column.  Regards, B.R.

Name: emmet o'connell
Date: 10 Mar 2009

Comments

The reinterment of Sitting Bull would I feel have to be a decision made by the Sioux tribe, but to compare Sitting Bull who was a great leader who did his upmost to protect not only his people but there way of life to some one like oliver cromwell is a very unfair comparision, if you look at cromwell's record in Ireland then nobody should admire him.

3/11/09 Emmet: Thanks for your comments. Actually, the decision on where Sitting Bull should be buried is not up to the tribes but the family. No individual or group should be able to tell a family member where to bury their loved one. In the case of Sitting Bull, the Standing Rock Tribe did pass a motion in the 1950s that stated SB’s burial site should be decided by the family. But, all this debate is moot: Ernie LaPointe and his family have resolved not to bury their great grandfather at LBH. Regards, B.R.

Name: geoff the aussie
Date: 09 Mar 2009

Comments

gday bob and once again a terrific site.....i'd like to ask you your opinion of brevet (major general) george armstrong custer...1..as a person?...2..did he stuff up that fatefull day?....i believe even if he hadnt divided his command reno and benteen would have also fallen???....cheers...geoff..brisbane..australia

Hello Geoff: You ask some tough questions. For what I think about George Custer please read an editorial I wrote – “Was Custer a Psychopath?” -- in response to what the creator of the HBO series, “Deadwood” had to say about Custer.

Did Custer mess up at the Battle of the Little Bighorn? He was commander of the 7th that day so he has to bear the brunt of most of what transpired there. Did he mess up as an individual? Possibly – like dividing his command too many times – but it’s always so darn easy for any of us to pass judgment on Custer and/or his officers when viewing this battle in the comfort of our chairs, with a million books written about the battle near us, and most importantly, hindsight. For all these decades spent talking about this battle with friends, I’ve always reminded them of hindsight. Some folks are just now starting to grasp that idea and embracing it when studying Custer as well as the rest of history.

For those who study and write about the LBH but do not follow the rules and ethics of research, they usually find a scapegoat. In almost all cases, the scapegoat is either Reno or Benteen or both. In some cases – and these are rare – they even go so far as to lavish nothing but praise upon Custer and his family.  A great example of how history should be written – especially in regards to this battle – is Brust, Pohanka, and Barnard’s Where Custer Fell. They do their best to report the facts – as they learned them -- from their research. Read it and you will understand how good history should be written.

What would have been the outcome if Custer had not divided his command? Again, who knows. We know for sure that the warriors were well motivated and supplied to fight that day. The 7th would have had a hard fight no matter what.  Regards, Bob

Name: Russ T.
Date: 18 Feb 2009

Comments

I have been reading the articles on your site for the last few days, and I am really awestruck! I have been fascinated by the events leading up to and including the 25/26/27 June 1876 for many years, but have never, until now, followed them really seriously. Thank you for a truly wonderful website. I hope, and have always hoped, to visit the battle site, and may possibly do so in the next year. But in any event, I will surely join the Friends of the Battlefield!

However, my reason for writing is to enquire about the possible reinterment of Sitting Bull at the LBH site. A 'hero' of mine, if I may call him that, is Oliver Cromwell, 1599- 1658. And after his death it is rumored that he was buried, quietly, at night, on the field of Naseby, site of a victory he participated in 1645. Nobody knows of the truth of this statement, except a select chosen few, who will thankfully, not tell. It is a fitting place, if it is true, for him to rest in peace. Few know if it is true or not, but I hope that it is. I have stood on that field, in the snow, alone, and it is s fitting place to rest for eternity.

This is just a thought for Mr. LaPointe to think about. Many former adversaries have found their final resting place by the side of their former enemies, and many former adversaries have found reconciliation in their latter years. I hope that if Sitting Bull has not already been interred somewhere else, that Mr. LaPointe, and his family might still consider this an appropriate site. It would be a fitting, final, respectful and peaceful resting place for a rightful 'war hero', albeit secret.

Best wishes and regards, and thanks for a wonderful website!

Russ

2/18/09 Thank you kindly for your positive comments regarding the Friends website.

Regarding Mr. LaPointe and reinterment of Sitting Bull at Little Bighorn: his mind has been made up not to move Sitting Bull there. And, it is not because his great grandfather would be close to former adversaries but due to privacy for Sitting Bull and the family members alive today.

I hope that you’ll continue to visit our site to check what’s new. Warm Regards, B.R.

Name: robert
Date: 14 Feb 2009

Comments

There was a television show called twilight zone in the early 1960's that featured going back in time and fighting with nat's custer. it was great. would anyone like to have it? I'ts tittle the 7th is made of phamptons

2/15/09 Thanks Robert. There is not much accurate about “The Twilight Zone” episode, ”The 7th Is Made Up of Phantoms” (seen in season 5) -- originally broadcast on December 6, 1963 -- but it’s a lot of fun to watch. The teleplay was written by Rod Serling who had a good grasp of the basic facts, although his village could have been a bit larger. Serling opened the episode by announcing, “June twenty-fifth, 1964 – or, if you prefer, June twenty-fifth, 1876. The cast of characters in order of their appearance: a patrol of General Custer’s cavalry and a patrol of National Guardsmen on a maneuver. Past and present are about to collide head-on, as they are wont to do in a very special bivouac area known as…The Twilight Zone.” You can still order it today: The Twilight Zone - Season 5 (The Definitive Edition)

Name: Davana Wakinyansapa
Date: 11 Feb 2009

Comments

People write about Inkpaduta but never go to the real source my Grandmother the Great Great Grandchild of Inkpaduta, my Fathers brother is named after our Greatest Grandfather Inkpaduta!!! Pidamiya,

Name: Gerly Daug-Esperon
Date: 15 Jan 2009

Comments

Hello, my apologies if I can't say anything about the Little Bighorn Battle, however it always fascinates me the different tribes of America. Everytime I've watched movie about American Indians it has something that just magnetized me to finish the movie. I like how they talk and especially your physical appearance. I love the way you took care of your hair which is long and black and so shiny. I have always dreamt of seeing one, I don't know if that is really possible. I'm from the Philippines and I'm working here in Doha, Qatar, a hotel.

Name: Ron Summers
Date: 14 Jan 2009

Comments

Going through my history with a hypnotherapist I seem to have been influanced by someone from The bighorn tragedy.(without better words to describe it at this time)I have been there to the memorial twice and the first time I was entranced by the sounds I heard and the things I felt in 1991. I did not rest a day till I returned to that location looking for answers till 2001. I learned alot each time but the second times I did not hear the screams ,the hoof beats, the gun fire that I had heard the first visit. I still until tonight have wondered why I had such a happening in my life as back then. I am a spiritual person but not to an extreme. I was called nuts by anyone I told of my experience. Tonight some things came to light under hypnosis. I rushed home to find a name on your muster rolls of the 7th that may be a missing relative of mine. Tjis will of course have to be investigated first but I thank you for your efforts to have this sight . I do honor all americans which fought and died in this tragedy, both white and native americans . I may have family on both sides of this affair. Thank you so much. Ron

Name: hiatsistsalagi..janice truitt
Date: 06 Jan 2009

Comments

hello...i have probably posted here before..dont have time or energy to go thru all past posts..just want to say yet again, that there is absolutely NO DOUBT in MY mind that the famous/infamous photo of crazy horse is the real thing...lots of provenance behind it...i got goose bumps the first time i saw it...was born and raised in the 'crazy horse' country of northeastern wyoming..was my childhood hero...will always be 'naysayers'...

1/11/09 Thanks for posting again, Janice. I believe Crazy Horse will forever remain an enigma whether we know what he looked like or not. For me, I prefer not knowing: Crazy Horse can always appear just as I imagine. Regards, Bob

Name: Jonathan Willert
Date: 05 Jan 2009

Comments

My father, James Willert, the author of "The Little Bighorn Diary and other books relating to Little Bighorn battle took me and my brother James to the monument in 1980 and it was quite an experience. My dad passed away in 2002. However, my wife and I took a trip up to the monument in 2003 and it had changed a bit. But it was every bit enjoyable as it had been 23 years later. We hope to take our daughter in a few years. She is just three years old.

1/6/09 Thanks so much for your note, Jonathan. Your father is well respected for his incredible studies of the Sioux/Cheyenne War of 1876. His magnum opus, Little Bighorn Diary is a masterpiece study of every Army column that fought in that war -- and their experiences -- on a daily basis.

I met your father in 1983. We were attending the LBHA conference in Billings. I remember your father and me sitting by the motel swimming pool until 2:30 in the morning talking about the battle. It was then that I was fortunate to get a copy of his book which he inscribed. It’s a treasure that will stay in my library. I will always remember your father wearing his suit everywhere he went – even during the field trips under a blazing Montana sun.

I’m glad you made it back to the battlefield in 2003. Let us know what your daughter thinks of her trip to LBH. Regards, Bob

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