George Yates facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
George Wilhelmus Mancius Yates
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George Yates
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| Born | February 26, 1843 Albany, New York |
| Died | June 25, 1876 (aged 33) Little Big Horn, Montana |
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| Years of service | 1861–76 |
| Rank |  Captain |
| Unit | 7th U.S. Cavalry |
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George Wilhelmus Mancius Yates (born February 26, 1843 – died June 25, 1876) was an officer in the U.S. 7th Cavalry Regiment. He was a brave soldier who fought in important battles. Sadly, he was killed during the famous Battle of the Little Bighorn.
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Early Life and Military Career
George Yates was born in Albany, New York. When he was young, he met George Armstrong Custer, who would become a very close friend. Their friendship began in Monroe, Michigan.
Fighting in the Civil War
During the American Civil War, Yates joined the army. He started as a second lieutenant in the 4th Michigan Infantry. Custer helped him get a job working for General Alfred Pleasonton. Yates showed great courage and skill during the war. He earned several special promotions, called brevet promotions, for his actions. This meant he was recognized for higher rank, even if he didn't officially get the pay for it right away.
He fought in many major battles of the Civil War, including:
- The First Battle of Manassas
- The Battle of Antietam
- The Battle of Fredericksburg
- The Battle of Gettysburg
Joining the 7th Cavalry
After the Civil War ended in 1866, Yates became a captain in the 7th Cavalry Regiment. He served directly under Lt. Colonel Custer. Yates commanded a group of soldiers known as F Company. He was part of a special group of Custer's close friends and family members, sometimes called the "Custer Clan."
Battle of the Little Bighorn
George Yates was killed during the Battle of the Little Bighorn on June 25, 1876. He died near Custer himself. After the battle, Yates was first buried on the battlefield. Later, his remains were moved to Fort Leavenworth National Cemetery in Fort Leavenworth, Kansas.
Yates left behind his wife and three children. His wife later worked as a teacher at the Carlisle Indian School.
Honors and Legacy
To remember and honor George Yates, a place called Fort Yates in the Dakota Territory was named after him. Also, Battery Yates, a military battery overlooking San Francisco Bay at Fort Baker in Marin County, California, was named in his memory.
