September 25th, 2009

Prior to marrying George Custer a good friend of Libbie’s gave her some sage advise. “General Custer has elements of character which will develop…and, dear girl, some of that development rests with you.” Any character Libbie was unable to develop while they were married, she improved after he was killed. I’m fascinated with Libbie’s story because it shows how blind many people in love truly are. Just prior to the pair getting married, George was forthcoming about his vices. He told her that he drank (although he made a pledge to quit), cursed (because it was satisfying), was prone to eye a pretty face, played cards for money, and bet on horse races. These were all things that would eventually cause problems in their marriage, but she looked passed these particular faults. Actually, she not only looked passed them, but shared with her cousin that they were non-existant. In January 1864, she wrote, “I do not say Armstrong is without faults. But he never takes liquor, nor frequents the gaming-table, and though not a professing Christian yet respects religion.” Young love is intoxicating, but prone to overlooking flaws that could be big obstacles later on. It’s a glorious sickness. I know how George and Libbie’s story begins and ends, but filling in the life in between is what holds my interest in writing their story. Maybe I’ll learn something in the process.