Gen. George and Libbie Custer Campsite
Hempstead vicinity, Waller County, Texas
Marker Inscription
Soon after the Civil War General George Armstrong Custer and his cavalry unit arrived in Texas as part of a large U.S. force sent to establish order and counter the threat posed by French-controlled Mexico. From August to October, 1865, Custer, his wife Elizabeth (Libbie), and several U.S. Cavalry units camped here on the Liendo plantation of Leonard W. Groce, heir of "Old 300" settler and cotton baron Jared Groce. The Custers enjoyed warm relations with the Groces and area Texans in part because of his insistence that federal troops treat Texans and their property with respect. Sesquicentennial of Texas Statehood 1845-1995
Erected by Texas Historical Commission
The Story
In the uneasy months after the Civil War, the U.S. sent a large force into Texas to restore order and to counter French-backed forces in Mexico. From August to October 1865, George Armstrong Custer and his cavalry — with his wife Elizabeth, "Libbie" — camped on the Liendo plantation of Leonard Groce, heir to "Old 300" cotton baron Jared Groce. Custer's insistence that his troops respect Texans and their property helped keep relations with local families cordial.
Why it matters
The campsite marks the delicate opening of Reconstruction in Texas, when federal occupation, foreign intrigue in Mexico, and the conduct of a famous cavalry officer all met on a single plantation.
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Related people
- · George Armstrong Custer
- · Elizabeth "Libbie" Custer
- · Leonard W. Groce
- · Jared Groce
Related events
- · Reconstruction
Themes & tags
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