Hairy Moccasin facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Hairy Moccasin
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| Born | c. 1854 |
| Died | October 9, 1922 Lodge Grass, Montana |
| Allegiance | Crow Indians |
| Years of service | 1876–1877 |
| Rank | Scout |
| Unit | 7th Cavalry |
| Battles/wars | Battle of the Little Bighorn |
Hairy Moccasin (also known as Esh-sup-pee-me-shish) was a brave Crow scout who lived from about 1854 to 1922. He worked with the U.S. Army during an important time in American history. He is best known for being a scout for George Armstrong Custer's 7th Cavalry. Hairy Moccasin was also a survivor of the famous Battle of the Little Bighorn.
Hairy Moccasin: A Crow Scout
Hairy Moccasin was a member of the Crow tribe. In 1876, he chose to become an Army scout. This meant he would help the soldiers by exploring and gathering information. He joined other Crow warriors like White Man Runs Him and Goes Ahead.
The Crow people were often enemies with the Sioux and Northern Cheyenne tribes. So, Hairy Moccasin and the other Crow scouts helped the Army in their fight against these groups. They worked together in the area near the Little Bighorn River in what is now Montana.
Scouting for Custer
Hairy Moccasin and the other scouts played a key role. They explored the large camps of the Sioux and Northern Cheyenne tribes. Then, they reported what they saw to General Custer. This information was very important for the Army's plans.
Before the main battle, Hairy Moccasin changed into his traditional Crow clothing. Custer thought this meant Hairy Moccasin believed he would die. Custer became angry and sent Hairy Moccasin away about an hour before the final fight.
Surviving the Battle
Even though he was dismissed by Custer, Hairy Moccasin still took part in the battle. He joined another group of soldiers led by Major Marcus Reno. This group was on a ridge overlooking the main fight. They were attacked, but most of Reno's men survived the battle. Hairy Moccasin was one of these survivors.
Life After the War
After the big conflict, known as the Black Hills War, ended, Hairy Moccasin settled down. He lived on the Crow Reservation in Montana. He passed away on October 9, 1922, near Lodge Grass. He was buried in Saint Ann's Cemetery.
