PBA Galleries

10 items presented in glazed walnut shadow box 31x57x13 cm (12¼x22½x5¼"). Comprising: Martin's brass bugle; a fired bullet with small change purse and paper slip reading "Custer Battlefield Bullet"; privately contracted German silver ID shield stamped "John Martin / 7th Cav. / TR H";; a miniature gilt brass horseshoe stamped "US 7 CAV"; masonic-style triangular brass medal stamped Sgt. John Martin, 7th Cavalry Troop H.";  US medal with eagle hanger; Italian marksman's medal; with assorted Knights of Pythias items.

John Martin, or Giovanni Martini in his home country, after having served as a 14 year old drummer boy with Garibaldi's Army of Liberation, emigrated to America. In 1874 Martin enlisted joining the 7th Cavalry. A trumpeter, he served also as a courier for Captain Benteen. On the morning of Custer's last stand, Martin blew officer's call at General Custer's request. Later that day he would carry Custer's last message back to Benteen "Benteen, come on—big village—be quick—bring packs. P.S.—Bring packs." Martin survived the Battle of the Little Bighorn, retiring as a sergeant thirty years later.