AN AIDE TO CUSTER: The Civil War Letters of Lt. Edward G. Granger

1-241960

In August 1862, 19-year-old Edward G. Granger joined the 5th Michigan Cavalry Regiment as a second lieutenant. On August 20, 1863, the newly promoted Brig. Gen. George Armstrong Custer appointed Granger as one of his aides, a position Granger would hold until his death in August 1864. Many of the 44 letters the young lieutenant wrote home during those two years provide a unique look into the words and actions of his legendary commander. At the same time, Granger's correspondence offers an intimate picture of life on the picket lines of the Army of the Potomac and a staff officer's experiences in the field. Includes 38 black and white illustrations and 10 maps.