Valentine McGillycuddy

Valentine Trant McGillycuddy (February 14, 1849 – April 6, 1939) was an American surgeon, pioneer, Indian agent, and administrator in the United States. He was known for his work in the American West, including his role as a treaty signer at the Treaty of Fort Laramie in 1868, and his work as a surgeon during the Great Sioux War of 1876. He was also the first white man to climb Harney Peak, the highest point in South Dakota.

Early life and education

McGillycuddy was born in Racine, Wisconsin, to Irish immigrants. He attended the University of Michigan, where he studied medicine and graduated in 1873.

Career

After graduation, McGillycuddy moved to the American West, where he worked as a surgeon for the United States Army. He was present at the Battle of Little Bighorn and treated the wounded. In 1876, he was appointed as the Indian agent for the Oglala Sioux at the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation.

Later life and death

In his later years, McGillycuddy served as the mayor of Rapid City, South Dakota, and as the South Dakota State Surgeon. He died in 1939 and was buried on Harney Peak.

Legacy

McGillycuddy's work in the American West has been recognized by several institutions. The Valentine T. McGillycuddy House, his former residence in Rapid City, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. In addition, a plaque on Harney Peak commemorates his first ascent of the mountain.

See also

• List of people from South Dakota
• History of South Dakota

External links

• Valentine Trant McGillycuddy at Find a Grave

Valentine McGillycuddy Resources
Latest articles Most recent articles Ongoing trials	Wikipedia