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Auction: 317 - The Collector's Series
Lot: 1037

Custer, George Armstrong [Custer, Elizabeth] US army officer and cavalry commander in the Civil War and the Indian Wars; killed with all his men at the Battle of Little Big Horn in 1876. His wife, Elizabeth "Libbie" Custer, née Bacon, was one of the few army wives to accompany her husband in the field. Their initial courtship was disapproved of by her father Judge Daniel Bacon as Custer was the son of a blacksmith. Custer's elevation to Brevet Brigadier General brought the judge around; after Custer's death, Libbie became an outspoken advocate for the legacy of her husband. [3] 1) Envelope addressed to "Mrs Genl Custer / 339 Penn Avenue / Washington D.C." Written in Custer's hand, thus a virtual autograph. Envelope postmarked `Washington D.C. May 4'; also bulls-eye cancel, stamp removed. Very light ink bleed, otherwise excellent signature; 2) Photograph of Elizabeth Custer, wife of George Armstrong Custer, 4 x 5 ¾". Mounted on card frame. Frontal view, no markings. Similar to a photograph published in Ambrose's "Crazy Horse and Custer", p.246-7. The Ambrose photograph shows the same dress,and same hair style, but in the example here, Libbie is wearing a choker around her neck and is directly facing the camera. These photographs were likely taken in the early 1880's. The image is in excellent condition, but there are some stains on the card frame; 3) Mrs. Custer's calling card. Engraved card with "Mrs. Custer" in italic at center, "71 Park Ave." lower right. Two very light stains, otherwise excellent. [3]
From the Custer "Shoebox" Collection

Sold for
$600