BATTLE OF WICHITA CONGRATULATORY ORDER Historic printed D. S. 1p. 8vo., General Field Orders, Beaver Creek, Indian Territory, Nov. 29, 1868 congratulating the 7th Cavalry on their defeat of Cheyenne and Arapaho Indians at the bloody battle of the Washita, reading, in very small part: "The Major General Commanding announces...the defeat by the 7th Regiment of Cavalry, of a large band of Cheyenne Indians...reinforced by the Arrappahoes...and Kiowas...on the Washita...resulting in a loss to the savages of one hundred and three warriors killed, including Black Kettle; the capture of fifty-three squaws and children...four thousand arrows...and immense quantities of dried meat and other Winter provisions...the loss to the 7th Cavalry was two officers killed. Major Joel H. Elliott and Captain Louis M. Hamilton, and nineteen enlisted men; and three officers wounded...Lieut. Col. T. W. Custer...(slightly)...the gallantry and bravery displayed resulting in such signal success, reflects the highest credit upon both the officers and men of the 7th Cavalry; and the Major General...desires to express his thanks to the officers and men engaged in the Battle of the Wasita, and his special congratulations are tendered...to their distinguished commander, Brevet Major General George A. Custer for...gallant services rendered, which have characterized the opening of the campaign against hostile Indians south of the Arkansas. By command of Major General Sheridan... ". Signed and made official by 7th Cavalry trooper, Pierre A. Barker. American Indian vengeance for this brutal massacre of Indian woman and children during one of the Plains heaviest snowstorms was achieved years late during the bloody battle of Little Big Horn. Minor chip affects upper margin, else very good. $800-1,000