Under Custer's Command: The Civil War Journal of James Henry Avery

by James Henry Avery, Karla Jean Husby, Eric J. Wittenberg (Editor)

Avery fought in the legendary Michigan Cavalry Brigade Avery's battles included Gettysburg, The Wilderness, Yellow Tavern, Haws Shop, Tom's Brook, Cedar Creek, and Trevilian Station Includes thirty-two rare photographs and illustrations, and ten maps George Armstrong Custer's fabled Fifth Regiment fought with great distinction throughout the war and suffered the third highest total of men killed in the entire Union cavalry. A twenty-four year old farmer from Hopkins, Michigan, named James Henry Avery was one of Custer's feared "wolverines." Besides eloquently describing his personal experiences, Sergeant Avery's wartime journals and postwar reminiscences provide uniquely detailed descriptions of Civil War cavalry movements and the only known account that addresses the escape elements of the Fifth Michigan Cavalry on the first day of the Battle of Trevilian Station.

Genres: History, War, Civil War

Hardcover

First published January 1, 2000

Reviews

[John · Rating 3 out of 5]

Avery was a cavalryman in 5th Michigan Cavalry, one of the best regiments in the civil war. He was an admirer of George Custer serving under him at Gettysburg and subsequent battles. The insight into cavalry operations, tactics and daily life is where the real value lies. The amount of time spent in the saddle was impressive and the dedication to caring for their horses comes through. Avery was eventually broken down physically with unexplained illness and is in a hospital at war's end. I learned much and enjoyed the easy writing style.

[Adelbert · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read.
Avery's story is told with good supporting information.
It has been assembled as he wrote it.
It is like sitting down and having a conversation with an old friend.