The Geological Observations of General George A. Custer

Abstract

Major General George Armstrong Custer is one of the best known military figures of the nineteenth century and the subject of more than 600 books and articles. However, his observations concerning geology and natural history during the period of western expansion after the Civil War have been ignored by scientists and given scant attention by historians. Custer pioneered in aerial balloon reconnaissance during the war and his topographic skills and ability to read terrain were enhanced while a cavalry officer on the Great Plains from 1867 to 1872. His interest in science emerged during this time as manifested by detailed written commentary about the geology, hydrology, and geomorphology of the country through which he campaigned. Custer eagerly sought the company and instruction of scientists attached to the Yellowstone expedition of 1873 and, as commander of the Black Hills military reconnaissance survey of 1874, was partly instrumental in securing the services of geologist N.H. Winchell and other scienti...