Surviving Horses of the Battle of Little Bighorn: Comanche's Legacy

Introduction

The Battle of Little Bighorn, one of the most significant engagements of the Great Sioux War of 1876, has captivated historians, enthusiasts, and the public alike for over a century. The battle is often remembered for the tragic loss of Captain Myles Keogh and his fellow soldiers from the 7th Cavalry. While the fate of the humans involved is well-documented, the horses played an equally vital role in the incident. This article delves into the fate of the horses involved in the Battle of Little Bighorn, with a particular focus on the legendary Comanche.

The Battle of Little Bighorn: A Historical Overview

The Battle of Little Bighorn took place on June 25–26, 1876, in the Montana Territory. It was a pivotal conflict between U.S. Army cavalry units, led by George Armstrong Custer, and Native American tribes, primarily the Lakota, Northern Cheyenne, and Arapaho. The battle ended in a fierce and one-sided attack on the U.S. forces, resulting in the 3rd Cavalry Regiment's complete destruction and the death of Custer.

The Battle's Aftermath and Horse Losses

Following the Battle of Little Bighorn, the aftermath left the battlefield desolate with the bodies of those who had fought and fallen. It is estimated that more than 200 Indian horses were captured after the battle, while many others were left behind to fend for themselves. The victorious tribes, primarily the Cheyenne and Lakota Sioux, took many of the captured horses as trophies and treasures, showcasing their success and bravery during the engagement.

Comanche: The Only Surviving Cavalry Horse

Among the few equines that managed to survive the carnage of the Battle of Little Bighorn was a remarkable horse named Comanche. Comanche was the mount of Captain Myles Keogh, who was a cavalry officer in the 7th Cavalry Regiment. Captain Keogh was one of the senior officers who perished in the battle, along with many of his fellow soldiers. However, Comanche, though critically injured, managed to limp away from the battlefield alive.

The injury sustained by Comanche was severe. He had a bullet wound to his left side, survived by four other gunshot wounds. Upon finding him, the relief force, which arrived at the scene the day after the battle, noticed the injured horse and brought him to Camp Stevens, where he received first aid. Despite his injuries, Comanche survived and became a symbol of the 7th Cavalry’s resilience and the indomitable spirit of the American frontier.

The Legacy of Comanche

Comanche's survival and subsequent recuperation made him an icon in the world of the 7th Cavalry. He was carefully cared for and eventually passed to the 7th Cavalry Regiment's Airborne Troop, representing the continuation of the cavalry's legacy. Comanche’s fate was eventually sealed when he was put down in 1906 at an estimated age of 25, due to his deteriorating health.

The legacy of Comanche extends beyond his survival. Museums, including the Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument, exhibit artifacts and notable items associated with Comanche, including pictures and other memorabilia. He is a testament to the enduring bond between man and horse in the American West, a period marked by both triumph and tragedy.

Conclusion

The horses of the Battle of Little Bighorn played a crucial role in the conflict, even if their stories often go untold. While many fell in the heat of battle, Comanche's survival not only tells a poignant story of survival but also serves as a reminder of the enduring legacy and spirit of the cavalry and the American frontier.