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Frederick William BenteenUS Army officer, participant in the Civil War and Indian Wars
Date of Birth: 24.08.1834
Country:  USA |
Content:
- Early Life and Family
- Military Service during the Civil War
- Post-Civil War Service
- Controversy and Dismissal
- Reinstatement and Retirement
- Later Years and Death
Early Life and Family
Frederick Benteen was born in Petersburg, Virginia, the son of Theodore Charles Benteen and Caroline Hargrove. In October 1831, the family relocated to Virginia after the birth of their first child. In 1849, they moved to St. Louis, Missouri, where Frederick met his future wife, Catherine Louisa Norman.
Military Service during the Civil War
With the outbreak of the Civil War, Benteen joined the Union Army and became a First Lieutenant in the 10th Missouri Volunteer Cavalry Regiment on September 1, 1861. He participated in numerous battles and earned promotions for his bravery, rising to the rank of Colonel by July 1, 1865.
Post-Civil War Service
After the war, Benteen was appointed Captain in the 7th Cavalry Regiment. In 1876, he fought in the Great Sioux War and continued to serve with the 7th Cavalry after the death of George Custer at the Battle of Little Bighorn. He later participated in the Nez Perce War of 1877.
Controversy and Dismissal
In 1877, Benteen was promoted to Major and transferred to the 9th Cavalry Regiment, serving at Fort Duchesne, Utah. However, his struggle with alcoholism led to a court-martial in 1887, resulting in his dismissal from the Army.
Reinstatement and Retirement
President Grover Cleveland, influenced by the recommendations of George Crook and Phil Sheridan, suspended Benteen's dismissal for a year. On April 27, 1888, he was assigned to Fort Niobrara in Nebraska, but resigned his commission due to ill health within three days.
Later Years and Death
Benteen settled in Atlanta after leaving the military. On June 17, 1898, he suffered a stroke and died five days later. His remains were reinterred in Arlington National Cemetery in 1902.
