Donald McIntosh facts for kids

Donald McIntosh (born September 4, 1838 – died June 25, 1876) was an officer in the U.S. 7th Cavalry Regiment. He was a soldier who fought in the American Indian Wars. McIntosh sadly died during the famous Battle of Little Bighorn in what is now Montana.

About Donald McIntosh

Early Life and Family

Donald McIntosh was born in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. His father, James (John) McIntosh, worked for the Hudson's Bay Company. This was a very important fur trading company. Donald's mother, Charlotte Robinson McIntosh, was related to Red Jacket, a famous chief of the Six Nations.

When Donald was 14, his father passed away. Young Donald lived in different places where the Hudson's Bay Company had posts. Later, he moved to Fort Vancouver, Washington. After that, he lived in Oregon City in 1851 and Portland, Oregon, in 1854.

Military Career

During the American Civil War, Donald McIntosh worked as a chief clerk. He helped Brigadier General Daniel H. Rucker in the Quartermaster Department. This department was in charge of supplying the army.

On October 30, 1866, McIntosh married Mary (Molly) Garrett in Baltimore, Maryland. Not long after, on August 17, 1867, he became a Second Lieutenant in the 7th U.S. Cavalry. He was promoted to First Lieutenant on March 22, 1870.

In 1876, McIntosh was given command of Company G. This happened because the usual commander was not there. He led his company during the summer expedition from Fort Abraham Lincoln.

The Battle of Little Bighorn

Donald McIntosh was part of the Battle of Little Bighorn. This battle took place on June 25, 1876. During the fight, Major Marcus Reno led three cavalry companies. They tried to attack a Native American village in the river valley. Meanwhile, General Custer planned to attack from another side.

Reno's attack faced strong resistance. He ordered his soldiers to get off their horses and form a line. They fought for about 15 minutes. When they couldn't make progress, they moved into a group of trees for defense.

During this time, Reno's scout, Bloody Knife, was killed. Major Reno then ordered a quick retreat across the river to some high ground. Company G, led by McIntosh, was among the last to leave the trees. Native American warriors knocked McIntosh from his horse. He was killed quickly during this intense part of the battle.

His body was found two days later. This was when more soldiers arrived to help.

Burial and Legacy

Donald McIntosh was first buried where he fell on the battlefield. In July 1877, his remains were moved. They were reburied the next month at Fort Leavenworth National Cemetery. Later, in 1909, his remains were moved again. They were taken to Arlington National Cemetery for their final resting place. His wife, Mary, received a pension after his death. She was buried with him in 1910.

In 1995, something special was found at the battle site. A finger bone with a ring was dug up near McIntosh's memorial. The ring was identified as McIntosh's wedding band. It had the initials of him and his wife, and their wedding date. This special ring is now kept in a private museum in Garryowen, Montana.