Snake Topics – Access Genealogy

Spokane Story

“Spokane Story: A Colorful Early History of the Capital City of the Inland Empire” by Lucile Foster Fargo offers readers an evocative journey through the formative years of Spokane, Washington. Published in 1957 by Northwestern Press in Minneapolis, this work seeks to straddle the realms of history and storytelling, presenting a narrative that is neither entirely factual history nor pure fiction. Fargo accepts the challenging task of depicting Spokane’s cultural and developmental evolution from its fur trade beginnings to its emergence as a municipal entity in the early twentieth century.

Kit Carson, His Life and Adventures – Indian Wars

Christopher “Kit” Carson, born on December 24, 1809, in Kentucky, grew up in the dangerous wilderness of Missouri, fostering his adventurous spirit. At age 12, he rescued bear cubs, showcasing his bravery. After abandoning a saddler’s apprenticeship for a life of exploration, he became skilled in woodcraft and hunting tactics. Carson served as a scout and guide, notably for Colonel J.C. Fremont, and gained fame for his exploits. He died in 1868, remembered as a legendary figure in American frontier history.

Legend of the Separation of the Comanche and Ute Tribes

The legend recounts the origins of the separation between the Comanche and Ute tribes, sparked by a deadly encounter between two hunters at a sacred spring. Jealousy led one hunter to murder the other, invoking the wrath of the Great Spirit. Following the murder, a vision of the slain Shoshone warrior appeared, cursing the Comanche and turning the spring foul. In retaliation, the spirit created a new, pure spring, symbolizing the tribes’ permanent division and the violence that ensued thereafter.

The Indians of Idaho Nez Percé and Shoshone Uprisings

The original inhabitants of Idaho, including the Nez Percé and Shoshone tribes, lacked written histories and architectural monuments, relying instead on oral traditions. The Nez Percé, noted for their intelligence and social organization, were initially reluctant to go to war against settlers. In contrast, the more hostile Cayuses and Shoshones faced challenges adapting to white civilization, leading to tensions and uprisings. By the late 19th century, many Native Americans had begun to embrace agriculture and education, settling into a more peaceful existence on reservations.

Treaty of August 12, 1865

On August 12, 1865, representatives of the United States and the Woll-pah-pe tribe of Snake Indians signed a treaty establishing peace between them and outlining various provisions. The tribe agreed to cede their land, relocate to a designated reservation, and foster good relations with the U.S. Additionally, the United States committed financial resources for the tribe’s development and welfare. The treaty emphasized mutual respect, the prevention of hostilities with other tribes, and prohibited alcohol use among the Woll-pah-pe.

Treaty of October 14, 1864

On October 14, 1864, representatives from the United States and the Klamath, Moadoc, and Yahooskin tribes signed a treaty at Klamath Lake, ceding tribal lands in exchange for annual payments totaling $86,000 over fifteen years, and provisions for a reserved area for the tribes. It established a reservation, restricted white settlement, and mandated the creation of facilities to aid in agriculture and education. The tribes agreed to be peaceful and abide by U.S. laws, with specific penalties for alcohol use on the reservation.

Snake Tribe

The term “Snake Indians” refers to various Shoshonean groups, predominantly those in eastern Oregon. This designation encompasses several synonyms and is closely associated with the Paviotso of western Nevada and the Mono of southeastern California. Key tribes within this classification include those located along the Walpapi and Yahuskin rivers.

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.

Siletz Reservation

The Siletz Reservation, established in 1855, is home to remnants of 34 tribes, including the Klamath, Coquille, and Rogue River Indians. Though these tribes intermarried, many adhere to their cultural practices. The area encompasses 225,000 acres with suitable agricultural land, primarily for oats. The Siletz Indians seek land allotments to improve their circumstances and express a desire for greater autonomy. Despite advancements in civilization, health issues persist. The local government promotes self-sufficiency among the tribes, advocating for the abolition of federal agency oversight.

Klamath Reservation

The Klamath Reservation, established through treaties since 1804, is home to the Klamath, Modoc, Snake, and some Pitt River tribes. These groups have intermarried, leading to a blended community without formal leadership. The climate varies, with agricultural potential limited, and stock raising is the main livelihood. Traditional practices have evolved, focusing on Christianity and modern governance through the Indian agent. Education is provided at the Klamath Agency school, though resources remain inadequate. Overall, the reservation faces challenges in economic self-sufficiency and infrastructure.

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.

Tribal Signs – Lipan to Sheepeater – Sign Language

The post outlines various sign languages used by different Native American tribes, including the Lipan, Mandan, and Sheepeater. Each tribe has unique gestures representing their identity, culture, and environment. For instance, the Lipan gesture involves specific finger movements that mimic actions associated with their surroundings, while the Mandan sign represents their distinct attire. The Sheepeater sign illustrates sheep behavior, reflecting their connection to this animal. Overall, these signs serve as essential elements of communication and cultural expression among the tribes.

Shoshone or Snake Indians

The Shoshone, or Snake Indians, inhabit the Rocky Mountains and the Utah basin, extending from the Great South Pass to the sources of the Columbia River. Historically, they were nomadic, relying on roots and fish for sustenance, exhibiting resilience amidst adversity. Despite their impoverished condition, they remain cheerful and hospitable. Explorers like Lewis and Clark documented their encounters, revealing a dichotomy between their rugged lifestyle and potential for agricultural development in the region. Current observations suggest their survival depends on adopting fixed agricultural practices, as external pressures threaten their existence.

Washington Indian Wars, 1855-1856

In the aftermath of the Ward train massacre in 1854, Major Granville O. Haller, stationed at Fort Dalles, led expeditions against the Snake Indians, ultimately capturing those responsible. By 1855, tensions escalated in the Yakima country following gold discoveries, leading to violent conflicts as tribes resisted white encroachment. The murder of Indian agent A.J. Bolon by Kamiakin further fueled hostilities. Haller’s subsequent military campaigns faced fierce resistance, marking the early stages of the Washington Indian Wars, as settlers prepared for ongoing conflicts against Native tribes.