Custer And His Wolverines: The Michigan Cavalry Brigade, 1861-1865

by Edward G. Longacre

George Armstrong Custer, who famously made his last stand at the Battle of the Little Bighorn in 1876, first achieved notoriety more than ten years earlier for his daring military exploits during the Civil War. Graduating (last in his class) in 1861 from West Point, he quickly joined the fighting, and went on to take part in nearly every major battle of the war. In 1863, he was promoted brigadier general-the youngest general in the Union army-and given charge of the Michigan cavalry brigade, which he dubbed "Wolverines."The Wolverines fought ferociously from 1863 to the end of the war under its flamboyant commander. Longacre covers in dramatic detail the brigade's critical defense of the Union line at Gettysburg, and the brigade's key role in surrounding Lee's army at Appomattox. By war's end, the Wolverines had gained the respect and admiration of the entire Union army for its bravery, and the brigade's famous red ties, emulating Custer, had become a well-known badge of pride and honor."A fine study of this famous command...a worthy addition to Longacre's previous works."- Blue & Gray Magazine

Genres: Civil War, History, Military Fiction

352 pages, Paperback

First published October 21, 1997

Reviews

[Creighton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic book about the Michigan Calvary brigade led by Custer, it’s not a book about Custer, but more of a brigade history. I am from Michigan, so I am always interested in reading about our contribution to the war effort.

[Steve Barney · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent detailed look at the volunteer Michigan cavalry during the Civil War and Custer’s rise through the ranks (through brave deeds, but also being an opportunist) to lead them for much of the war. The author details how the 1st., 5th., 6th. and 7th. regiments came to be, and their many campaigns during the war. From the earliest battles assigned to the army of the Potomac, to their time under Sheridan finally blocking Lee’s retreat at Appomattox Court House, and the surrender delegation led to Custer (and of course to Grant).