DEC 12: Michigan Cavalry Brigade is Formed

Capt. James B. Loomis of the 7th Michigan Cavalry Regiment. (Credit: Library of Congress)

On Dec. 12, 1862, the Michigan Cavalry Brigade is formed in Washington, D.C., under command of General Joseph T. Copeland. The Michigan Brigade, sometimes called “the Wolverines” or “Custer’s Brigade”, was in the Volunteer Union Army during the Civil War. It was comprised of the 1st Michigan Cavalry, 5th Michigan Cavalry, 6th Michigan Cavalry, and 7th Michigan Cavalry.

George A. Custer, a newly minted Major General and resident of Monroe, Michigan, took command of the Brigade in June 1863, leading them in crucial Civil War battles, including Gettysburg, where he famously charged JEB Stuart's Confederate cavalry, solidifying his reputation for aggressive tactics and daring assaults.

Custer and the Michigan Cavalry Brigade fought in every major campaign of the Army of the Potomac up until Robert E. Lee’s surrender at Appomattox Court House on April 9, 1865.