Kutenai Topics – Access Genealogy

Treaty of October 17, 1855

On October 17, 1855, representatives of the Blackfoot, Flathead, Nez Percé, and other tribes signed a treaty with U.S. commissioners A. Cumming and Isaac I. Stevens near the Judith River in Nebraska. The treaty established perpetual peace among the tribes and with the U.S., delineating a shared hunting ground for 99 years and granting exclusive territory to the Blackfoot Nation. It outlined mutual responsibilities, the protection of Indian lands, and provisions for annual financial support and education, while promoting civility and forbidding hostilities.

Treaty of July 16, 1855

On July 16, 1855, a treaty was signed at Hell Gate between Isaac I. Stevens, representing the U.S. government, and leaders of the Flathead, Kootenay, and Upper Pend d Oreilles tribes, establishing the Flathead Nation. The tribes ceded their lands to the U.S. in exchange for a designated reservation, financial support, and the establishment of schools and industry. They pledged to maintain peace with settlers, avoid alcohol use, and resolve disputes through U.S. authorities. The treaty required ratification by the President and Senate.

Jocko Reservation

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.

Kutenai Indians

The Kutenai Indians, also known as Flatbows, are believed to have originally inhabited areas east of the Rocky Mountains and later migrated westward. They are divided into Upper and Lower Kutenai, with the former being predominantly hunters and the latter mainly fishermen. Historically, their population was estimated at 1,200 in 1780, decreasing significantly by the early 20th century. Notable for their unique language classified as Kitunahan, the Kutenai have influenced regional geography, giving names to rivers, lakes, and mountains in British Columbia and the United States.

Kutenai Tribe

The Kutenai Tribe, originating from a distinct linguistic stock, historically inhabited areas east of the Rocky Mountains before migrating westward due to conflicts with the Siksika tribe. Predominantly residing in southeastern British Columbia and parts of Montana and Idaho, they are divided into Upper and Lower Kutenai, each with unique cultural traits and lifestyles. The Kutenai are known for their rich traditions, including buffalo hunting, fishing, and their mythology featuring animal tales. Despite facing challenges, they have maintained strong social structures and continued their customary practices.

Blackfeet Tribe in War

The Blackfeet were originally a peaceful tribe, engaging in limited conflicts until the introduction of horses transformed their way of life. With horses enhancing their capacity to acquire and transport goods, raiding neighboring tribes for horses became a predominant aspect of Blackfoot warfare. This led to about seventy-five years of systematic horse theft expeditions, alongside the occasional battles resulting in casualties. The emergence of horse culture fostered a mindset valuing property and bravery, particularly through the act of “counting coup,” which highlighted individual valor in combat.

Blackfoot Tribe, Past and Present

Fifty years ago, the Blackfoot Tribe, comprising the Piikuni, Blackfeet, and Bloods, commanded vast territories dominated by buffalo herds. Their history reflects a migration from the north, driven south by conflicts, until they thrived on the plains with abundant resources. However, the disappearance of buffalo and the encroachment of white settlers have severely diminished their numbers and way of life. Today, a few remain, navigating the shift from their traditional lifestyle to an uncertain agricultural existence, embodying the poignant intersection of their storied past and a challenging present.

Condition of the Idaho Indians in 1890

U.S. Indian Agent and Party on Fort Hall Reservation

In 1890, the Indian population in Idaho was summarized across various reservations, reflecting a complex mix of tribes and their current living conditions. The Bannocks and Shoshones, primarily at Fort Hall, were intermarried and faced challenges in adapting to farming and ranching. The Nez Percé, largely Presbyterian, cultivated their lands but contended with white cattle intrusions. The Coeur d’Alene tribes were more assimilated, living in frame houses and attending church. Each group exhibited varying degrees of adaptation and socio-economic stability amidst ongoing struggles with cultural preservation and external pressures.