Born: 1844
Biography:
Buffalo Calf Road Woman, also known as Brave Woman, was a remarkable Northern Cheyenne woman who played a crucial role in the Battle of the Rosebud and the Battle of the Little Bighorn. Born around 1844, she displayed immense courage and loyalty to her people, making her a revered figure in Cheyenne history.
During the Battle of the Rosebud in June 1876, Buffalo Calf Road Woman’s warrior brother, Chief Comes in Sight, was wounded and left on the battlefield as the Cheyenne and Lakota retreated. In a daring display of bravery, she galloped onto the battlefield at full speed and rescued her brother, carrying him to safety. Her heroic act inspired the Cheyenne warriors, leading them to defeat General George Crook and his forces. In honor of her bravery, the Cheyenne named the battle The Fight Where the Girl Saved Her Brother.
Buffalo Calf Road Woman’s valor did not end there. Just nine days later, she fought alongside her husband, Black Coyote, in the Battle of the Little Bighorn. In a testament to her marksmanship skills, Cheyenne oral history recounts that Buffalo Calf Road Woman struck the blow that knocked Lieutenant Colonel George Armstrong Custer off his horse before his demise in the battle.
After surrendering to the U.S. authorities, Buffalo Calf Road Woman, Black Coyote, and their two children were relocated to the Southern Cheyenne Reservation in Indian Territory (present-day Oklahoma). However, the desire to return to their homeland in Montana quickly led to their participation in the Northern Cheyenne Exodus in September 1878. Along the way, Black Coyote committed a grave offense by killing Cheyenne Chief Black Crane, resulting in their expulsion from Little Wolf’s band of Cheyennes.
Their journey was further marred when Black Coyote and two other Cheyenne men attacked and killed a U.S. soldier along Mizpah Creek in Montana. Soldiers from Fort Keogh relentlessly pursued the family. Eventually, they were captured, bringing an end to their tumultuous quest for freedom.
Buffalo Calf Road Woman’s legacy remains etched in the history of the Northern Cheyenne. Her unwavering loyalty, unmatched bravery, and unyielding spirit continue to inspire generations of Cheyenne women and serve as a testament to the historical contributions of indigenous women. She stands as a symbol of strength, resilience, and determination in the face of adversity.