THUNDER AT LITTLE BIG HORN

Maquette, Edition of 30, Created in 1992 – 39’H x 35″L x 24″D
Study, Edition of 100, Created in 1992 – 25″H x 29″L x 15″D

The Sioux carried away the swallow tailed flag of the Seventh Cavalry that was captured during the defeat of General Custer at the Battle of Little Big Horn. General George Armstrong Custer, a proud man with deep seated political ambitions and a ruthless reputation, laid the ground work for his own defeat.

Before going into battle against an unnumbered foe, Custer reduced his forces thinking it would bring more glory, praise, and credit his way to achieve a victory with fewer men. Then, against the advice of his Indian scout, Bloody Knife, he marched his men all night. Fatigued by the long march, the men and horses were no match for the waiting Sioux warriors. No doubt the thunderous echo of repeat-action carbine rifles echoed deep into the hearts of the Indians as they took the Battle of Little Big Horn.

After the defeat of General Custer, a small band of renegade Sioux headed north for the Canadian border with the Seventh Cavalry flag flying as a testimony to their victory over the “yellow hair”. The carrier of the flag, depicted here, and his wolf companion proudly fly the colors of their fallen enemy. Later this small band of Sioux warriors was overtaken at Slim Butte, South Dakota, and the flag was retrieved.

The Seventh Cavalry flag is currently on display at the Custer Battlefield Museum located at the site of the Custer battle in Montana.