Historical Preservation and Cultural Survival

Collection of Historical Photos - Photo Source: http://nezperce.lili.org

The Nez Perce are very active today in preserving their history and culture. There are several organizations dedicated to the task of preservation. Preservation also takes place on an individual level. In 1994 some Nez Perce began breeding horses in an attempt to revive an almost dead tradition of horse breeding and horsemanship. The Nez Perce Horse and it’s breeding is now an integral part of their culture and a prime example of how their preserving their culture on a more individual level. Several organizations exist with the purpose of preserving Nez Perce culture and history. The Nez Perce County Historical Society and Museum operates to preserve their history and share it with others. The Nez Perce Community Library offers references that inform and keep their culture and history alive. The Nez Perce National Historical Park boasts the beautiful geography of their land and offers it from the viewpoint of it’s ancestral inhabitants. Also, The Nez Perce National Historic Trail preserves the route the Nez Perce took to Canada in an attempt to flee from the U.S. military in the late 19^th century.

Nez Perce County Historical Society and Museum - Photo Source: http://www.npchistsoc.org/index.html

The Nez Perce County Historical Society and Museum is a perfect example of how the Nez Perce people are preserving their history and culture today. The museum houses artifacts and displays of many different events and topics including The Nez Perce War of 1877, agriculture, industry, World War I, The Great Depression and World War II. Also available are historic books and publications. The Nez Perce County Historical Society offers information on their land’s geology, interactions with Lewis and Clark, the construction and operation of the Camas Prairie Railroad and stories regarding the days of pioneers. Also, The Nez Perce Community Library is available to all who want to check out books on Nez Perce history and culture. Available through the library is the Nez Perce Reading Group and profiles on local Nez Perce authors. The library also runs a family history profile program where, for a fee, an expert will research the roots of a local Nez Perce family. These profiles are publicly displayed in the community library. Along with many books the library also holds catalogs of historical photographs.

The Nez Perce have always felt connected to the Earth and have done their best to protect it. This is commemorated at the Nez Perce National Historical Park. Here, you can inquire into the stories and history of the Nez Perce, who over thousands of years lived on this land. The park offers artifacts, tours and historical sites where one can really gain insight into the land of the Nez Perce. The Nez Perce Historical Park is enormous and offers several unique experiences. The park stretches across four states and boasts 38 sites such as Big Hole National Battlefield and Bear Paw National Battlefield. There is a visitor center that houses artifacts and displays as well as several outdoor activities. Some outdoor activities include the coyote creation story being told on a hike, canoe trips, national battlefields, and several other hiking trails. Not only does the Nez Perce National Historical Park offer interesting information and activities, but it also explains and preserves the history and culture of the Nez Perce people.

The long trek north to Canada by the Nez Perce in 1877 was a major event in Nez Perce history. More than 1,170 miles they traveled while being pursued by the United States military from June to October of 1877. This trail has been preserved for the informative opportunity to relive that northern flight. The trail offers many events such as hikes and horseback riding. There is also a learning center that gives information on nature, science, Nez Perce history and culture and outdoor safety. Thankfully, with these fantastic organizations and the efforts of the Nez Perce people, their history and culture will be preserved for another thousand years.

Bear Paw Battlefield - Photo Source: http://www.nps.gov/nepe/index.htm