Replaced Andrew Jackson Smith as Colonel of the 7th, much to Custer’s chagrin. Sturgis was in the West Point Class of ‘46 that included Stonewall Jackson, A.P. Hill, George McClellan, George Pickett, Jesse L. Reno, and John Gibbon. He fought in the Mexican War and then, in the First Cavalry, campaigned against the Cheyenne and Apache during the Indian Wars. Given command of the 7th in May 1869, he held Custer responsible for the death of his son, Lt. Jas Sturgis, at the Little Bighorn. Crisp and bold ink signature, “Compliments of S. D. Sturgis, Bvt. Maj. Genl. USA,” on an off-white card. In fine condition, with a few stray ink flecks. R&R COA.
