Elizabeth Bacon Custer

Elizabeth Bacon Custer, also known as Libbie Custer, was a prominent American figure and the wife of General George Armstrong Custer, a renowned United States Army officer and cavalry commander. Born on April 8, 1842, in Monroe, Michigan, Elizabeth was the daughter of Daniel Bacon, a judge, and Eleanor Sophia Page Bacon. Her upbringing in a middle-class family and her strong educational background laid the foundation for her future as a writer, historian, and advocate for her husband's legacy.

Early Life and Marriage to George Armstrong Custer

Elizabeth Bacon met George Armstrong Custer in 1862, during the American Civil War, when Custer was a young officer. They married on February 9, 1864, and their marriage was marked by deep affection and mutual respect. Elizabeth was known for her strong will, intelligence, and her ability to manage the household, which was crucial given the frequent relocations and uncertainties of military life. Throughout their marriage, Elizabeth supported Custer’s military career, often accompanying him to his postings and sharing in the challenges and adventures of his assignments.

Custer’s Military Career and Elizabeth’s Support

General George Armstrong Custer’s military career was marked by both brilliance and controversy, from his heroic actions in the Civil War to his ill-fated campaign against the Lakota, Cheyenne, and Arapaho tribes at the Battle of Little Bighorn in 1876. Elizabeth was a constant source of encouragement and support, often traveling with him to his military assignments and managing the family’s affairs during his absences. Her letters and diaries from this period provide valuable insights into the life of a military family during the late 19th century and the personal costs of military service.

Advocacy for Custer’s Legacy

Following General Custer’s death at the Battle of Little Bighorn, Elizabeth dedicated her life to preserving and promoting his legacy. She wrote several books, including “Boots and Saddles” and “Tenting on the Plains,” which provided detailed accounts of their life together and Custer’s military campaigns. Through her writings and public appearances, Elizabeth sought to counter the negative publicity surrounding Custer’s final battle and to present a more nuanced view of her husband’s character and achievements. Her efforts played a significant role in shaping the public’s perception of General Custer and ensuring that his memory was honored.

Writing Career and Public Advocacy

Elizabeth’s writing career was not only a means of supporting herself financially after Custer’s death but also a way to influence public opinion and secure her husband’s place in history. Her books are notable for their vivid descriptions of life on the frontier and their insight into the personal and professional life of General Custer. Elizabeth’s advocacy extended beyond her writings; she was a frequent lecturer and used her public platform to discuss her husband’s military career and the broader issues of the American West, including the treatment of Native Americans and the expansion of the United States.

Elizabeth Bacon Custer's legacy is complex and multifaceted, reflecting both her role as the wife of a famous military officer and her own accomplishments as a writer and advocate. Her life's work serves as a testament to the enduring power of love, loyalty, and the human spirit, even in the face of adversity and tragedy.