RA Fox and WA Graham

[mcaryf]

I am interested to know if it is now generally accepted that RA Fox's version of Custer's movements is broadly correct?

I have recently read RA Fox "Archaeology, History and Custer's Last Battle" and subsequently WA Graham's "The Custer Myth" - an interesting sequence. In particular I was able to note in the debate between WAG and Capt Carter, that WAG was using an argument that an interpretation of Capt Carter's would have required Custer to have been virtually static for about 45 minutes which WAG felt most unlikely. However, if RA Fox's version is now fully accepted (trip to North Ford etc) this fully explains the missing 45 minutes and I guess might reinvigorate Capt Carter's argument if he were still around to defend it, that more aggressive action by Reno in staying on the valley floor could possibly have helped Custer although putting his own command at great hazard.

Regards

Mike

[El Crab]

At first, I figured you meant the C Company charge, as it seems that's the biggest source of contention among a small group I correspond with. I still think it was E Company that Lame White Man and pals destroyed.

I've always found the north ford theory to be a bit odd, considering it lacks archaeological evidence. Its not to say it didn't happen, nor that the evidence isn't there. Its just odd in that much of Fox's book is based off of the digs and combat stress studies, yet this isn't.

I think it did happen. Maybe not all the way to the ford, but at least one warrior commented on soldiers moving north to the monument site. That they kept going, and were out of sight. Also, it would seem there was fighting in the Cemetery area.

What I feel is more important would be the shift towards an offensive posture. Regardless of where Custer's left wing might have gone, the majority of the new thinking is that Custer was on the offensive for a time, going where he wanted. On this point, Michno and Fox agree.

[mcaryf]

I guess one physical evidence thing that North Ford has going for it was the location of Mark Kellog's body. This could have been moved I suppose but if he got where he was found under his own volition then it looks as if at least part of the column and most probably the HQ did go towards the North Ford.

Regards

Mike