MEN WITH CUSTER

[Scout]

To many of us MWC is the source book for all research. The new 'revised' edition of "Men with Custer" starts with an apology to Dr. Hammer. "CBHMA takes sole responsibility for any ...interpretation errors in the book and regrets any embarrassment the Association may have caused Dr. Hammer."

What does this mean? Well seems the book that Dr. Hammer wrote was not the book that was published by the CBHMA. Ron Nichols took it upon himself to change Dr. Hammer's book to fit his views of the battle. He edited it. Actually, he screwed it up big time. Nichols actually believed Mitch Bouyer died with Reno's troops in the valley until someone set him straight. What you like this guy editing your LBH book? The new 'revised' book' is not the book Hammer wrote and his name has been taken off the cover. Now, how in the hell you can steal someone's work and stick your name on it is unknown to me but this is what apparently happened. It is sad to see Dr. Hammer's work hijacked by the old boy gang. So the next time someone refers to Hammer's 'Men With Custer' just remember...it ain't. Just another case of the "experts" of these organizations, who in many cases, no less about the battle that people will ever know.

[Treasuredude]

Interesting. I have one of the earlier editions. I might have to spring for this revised copy.

On a happier note, Ken Hammer will turn 90 this June 29. His CUSTER IN '76 is another must have. I am always looking through that one.

[Diane Merkel]

Scout, my understanding is that CBHMA purchased MWC from Dr. Hammer. The parties apparently were not clear about how the book would be reprinted. Dr. Hammer apparently thought it would be published as-is, while CBHMA modified it substantially.

I am very pleased Dr. Hammer published the original book, and I honor him for all of the research that went into it. However, I'm also glad subsequent editions have been published with updated info about burial locations and from pension files. I also prefer the alphabetical listing of the men as opposed to Dr. Hammer's method which required you to know a man's company before being able to find him. I keep the newest edition within grabbing distance of my desk.