Army captain (1834–1898) who served in Custer’s 7th Cavalry as commander of Company H at the time of the massacre at Little Big Horn. Benteen ignored direct orders to rush to Custer’s aid, prompting Custer’s widow to place the blame for her husband’s death on Benteen’s shoulders. DS, signed “F. W. Benteen,” one lightly-lined page, 7.5 x 10, June 1, 1878. A “Special Return for Candles for illuminating purposes at Fort Rice, DT.” The document bears a table noting that 10 pounds of candles were requisitioned for “One (1) Lantern, for stable guard Co. ‘H’ 7th Cavalry.” Signed by Lieutenant P.W. Badger noting that “the above articles & quantities are necessary of the public service for the purpose stated.” Benteen’s signature certifies Badger’s statements. This is the same company H that Benteen commanded only two summers earlier when he was assigned by George Custer to cover the left flank of his expedition to the Little Bighorn River. Following Custer's defeat, the victorious Sioux moved on Benteen who by then had joined forces with Marcus Reno. There he led two charges against the Sioux, finally driving them off. The following year he would participate in the campaign against the Nez Perce and would be brevetted a brigadier general for his actions at Canyon Creek. In fine condition. Auction LOA John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and R&R COA.
