Jocko Reservation

Jocko Reservation

Charlot's band on the March

In December 1890 and January 1891, Special Agent Horatio Seward reported on the Jocko Reservation’s Indian tribes, including the Flatheads, Pend d’Oreilles, and Kalispels. The reservation spans 1,433,600 acres and is largely self-sufficient, with most Indians engaging in farming. Despite some dependency on government aid, the community displays signs of progress in agriculture, education, and housing. The report highlights issues such as alcohol-related crime and a heavy death rate among the population, influenced by external societal factors.

Kalispel Indians

The Kalispel Indians, known by various names including Pend d’Oreilles for their distinctive shell earrings, were a part of the Salishan language family. Their territory spanned the Pend Oreille River and surrounding areas, extending eastward into parts of Canada. The tribe was first documented by Lewis and Clark in 1805. Over time, they experienced significant changes, including missionization and land surrender in 1855. The Kalispel have historical ties to several regional names, reflecting their cultural legacy.

Flathead Indians of Bitter Root Valley Montana

The article “Extracts from Senate Executive Document #231 of the 51st Congress, 1st Session concerning Flathead Indian Allotments in Montana, 1889” provides a detailed account of the removal of the Flathead Indians from the Bitter Root Valley to the Jocko Reservation in Montana. This document includes a list of Flathead Indians who consented to the land release, along with the relevant acts and supporting documents. The Bitter Root Valley lands, spread across nine townships, were affected by several legislative acts, starting with the Act of June 5, 1872, and subsequent amendments up to 1898. The document also includes certifications, orders, and agreements related to the land allotments and removal process. Additionally, it references various sources for further information, including the United States General Land Office records, St. Ignatius Mission records, and Missoula County court records.