In the Nov/Dec. 2011 issue, I told readers a possible reason why Geronimo was holding two sticks was so he could steady the gun while firing. Reader David West has shared another explanation:
“If you enlarge the image, the darker stick in his hand is his cleaning rod. If you look at the top of the rod, you will see a hole for his cleaning patches. All 1873 Springfield rifles have the same cleaning rod with a hole at the top. He is also holding a stick for unknown reasons. The cross sticks to steady his gun response does sound cool.”
Marshall Trimble is Arizona’s official historian. His latest book is Wyatt Earp: Showdown at Tombstone. If you have a question, write: Ask the Marshall, P.O. Box 8008, Cave Creek, AZ 85327 or e-mail him at marshall.trimble@sccmail.maricopa.edu
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