SEPT 24: Sheridan Shifts to Winter Strategy

Lt. Gen. Philip Sheridan (center) stands among a group of generals during the Civil War in 1864. (Credit: Library of Congress)

On Sept. 24, 1868, Lt. Col. George A. Custer receives a telegram from his military mentor, Maj. Gen. Philip Sheridan. Sheridan wanted to try a new strategy against the Cheyenne: attack them in their teepees in winter rather than chase them across the plains in the summer.

Sheridan sensed the “indefatigable” and brave Custer was the man for the job. Custer, who was at home in Monroe, Michigan at the time, was encouraged by Sheridan to return to duty at once.

Approximately two months later, Custer led the 7th Cavalry Regiment in a pre-dawn attack of Cheyenne camping along the Washita River in present-day Oklahoma.