Garryowen, the old Irish tune, was the regimental marching song of the 7th U.S. Cavalry, General Custer's command.
The Battle of the Little Big Horn commenced in the valley just east of here June 25, 1876, after Custer had ordered Major Marcus A. Reno to move his battalion into action against the Tribes of Sioux and Cheyennes, led by Chiefs Gall, Crazy Horse, Two Moons and the Medicine Man, Sitting Bull.
Reno, with 112 men, came out of the hills about 2½ miles southeast of here and rode within 1/4 mile of the Indian camp where he was met by the Indians who outnumbered the soldiers ten to one. Dismounting his men Reno formed a think skirmish line west across the valley from the timber along the river. After severe losses he was forced to retreat to high ground east of the Little Big Horn where he was joined by Major Benteen's command. The combined forces stood off the Indians until the approach of Gibbon's column from the north on the following day caused the Indians to pull out. Reno and Benteen were not aware of Custers fate until the morning of the 27th.
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