Description:

THE ARMY SURRENDERS A HORSE THAT SURVIVED THE BATTLE OF THE LITTLE BIG HORN
Fascinating document in which the U.S. Army gives up title to a horse which survived the Custer massacre and found its way to Canada! The manuscript letter, 2pp. 4to., Washington, Feb. 25, 1879, is signed by Adjutant General EDWARD D. TOWNSEND and was sent to Gen. Philip Sheridan. It notes that Major J. W. Walsh of the North West Mounted Police: "...has in his possession a gray horse branded 'U.S.' which was captured by the Indians in the Custer battle & which he purchased from a half-breed & would like to retain...the Secretary of War authorized Major Walsh to keep the horse...". On verso is an endorsement by ALFRED H. TERRY (1827-1890) Union brigadier general and commander of the expedition leading to George Custer's death at the Little Big Horn. He forwards the letter to Walsh, noting: "...I had no authority as Department Commander to take any action upon the letter of Major Walsh...the United States makes no claim to the horse in question...". There is also an endorsement signed by WILLIAM D. WHIPPLE (1826-1902) Union brigadier general and Chief of Staff of George H. Thomas at Chattanooga and Atlanta, sending the document to Terry. Very good.

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September 10, 2013 11:00 AM EDT
Elkton, MD, US

Alexander Historical Auctions LLC

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