Military officer (1849–1936) who joined the 7th Cavalry in 1872, participated in Custer’s first encounter with Crazy Horse and Gall during the Yellowstone Expedition of 1873, and served as Chief of Scouts for Custer at Little Bighorn. Varnum, who was wounded at Little Bighorn, went on to earn the Medal of Honor for his actions at the Battle of Wounded Knee in 1890. Excellent ALS signed in the text “C. A. Varnum,” one page, 8 x 10, April 7, 1930. Varnum grants a request related to his service in the 7th Cavalry. In part: “The officers of the 7th Cavalry in 1876 were as follows….” Varnum goes on to list more than forty officers and their ranks, including “Lt. Col. Geo A. Custer,” “Capt. T. W. Custer,” “Capt. F. W. Benteen,” and, under Troop B, his own name as lieutenant. Matted with a photo and engraved plaque to an overall size of 17 x 12.5. In very good condition, with light toning and soiling (a few marginal ink stains), a few creases and wrinkles, and rounding to one corner. R&R COA.
