Idaho, a state renowned for its rugged landscapes and rich history, holds a significant place in the narrative of Native American tribes. Before European settlement, the region served as home and hunting ground to no fewer than nineteen distinct tribes. Today, four federally recognized Indian reservations remain within the state’s borders, each a testament to the enduring legacy and cultural resilience of its indigenous inhabitants. This article explores these existing reservations, as well as briefly touching upon two former reservations, shedding light on their establishment, the tribes they encompass, and the historical context that shaped their existence. The keyword Idaho Indian Reservations will appear throughout the article.
Before delving into the specifics of each reservation, it is important to understand the broader historical context. The arrival of European settlers in the 19th century brought profound changes to the lives of Native Americans in Idaho. Treaties were negotiated (often under duress), land was ceded, and traditional ways of life were disrupted. The establishment of reservations was often presented as a way to protect Native American tribes, but in reality, it served to confine them to specific areas, facilitating westward expansion and resource extraction by the United States government. The history of Idaho Indian Reservations is therefore a complex and often painful one, marked by broken promises and cultural displacement.
Let’s now explore the four existing reservations in Idaho, each unique in its history and tribal composition:
Coeur d’Alene Reservation
Located in the northern panhandle of Idaho, the Coeur d’Alene Reservation is a sprawling landscape of approximately 404,480 acres. This reservation is home to the Coeur d’Alene Tribe, also known as the Skitswish, and also serves as a residence for members of other tribes, including the Kutenai and Spokan. Although not officially part of the reservation, some members of the Pend d’Oreille (Kalispel) tribe also reside within its boundaries. The diverse tribal presence underscores the complex history of intertribal relations and forced relocation that shaped the reservation system.
The establishment of the Coeur d’Alene Reservation was a gradual process, formalized through a series of executive orders, agreements, and congressional acts. The initial groundwork was laid through executive orders issued on June 14, 1867, and November 8, 1873. These were followed by agreements made on March 26, 1887, and September 9, 1889, which were subsequently confirmed in the Indian Appropriation Act approved on March 3, 1891. A final agreement on February 7, 1894, was ratified by an act of Congress on August 15, 1894, further solidifying the boundaries and legal status of the reservation. The Coeur d’Alene Tribe is actively involved in managing its natural resources and promoting economic development within the reservation. Their cultural preservation efforts are also significant, ensuring the continuation of their traditions and language for future generations. Understanding the formation of Idaho Indian Reservations requires delving into complex legal and political processes.
Fort Hall Reservation
Situated in southeastern Idaho, the Fort Hall Reservation encompasses approximately 447,940 acres. This reservation is the ancestral homeland of the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes, a confederation of two distinct but related tribes. The reservation derives its name from Fort Hall, a historic trading post that played a significant role in the region’s early history.
The establishment of the Fort Hall Reservation was formalized through the Treaty of July 3, 1868, along with subsequent executive orders issued on June 14, 1867, and July 30, 1869. Further agreements were made on July 18, 1881, and approved by Congress on July 3, 1882. Additional acts of Congress in 1888, 1889, and 1891 further shaped the reservation’s boundaries and legal framework. A significant agreement made on February 5, 1898, and ratified by an act of Congress on June 6, 1900, resulted in the cession of 416,060 acres of tribal land. Of this ceded land, a small portion was allotted to individual tribal members, while the remainder was opened to settlement by non-Native Americans, demonstrating the pressures of land dispossession faced by tribes. The Shoshone-Bannock Tribes are engaged in agriculture, ranching, and other economic activities on the reservation. They are also committed to preserving their cultural heritage and traditions. The challenges and triumphs of tribes within Idaho Indian Reservations reflect a broader struggle for self-determination.
Lapwai Reservation (Nez Perce Reservation)
Located in north-central Idaho, the Lapwai Reservation, often referred to as the Nez Perce Reservation, is the historical homeland of the Nez Perce Tribe. The reservation’s name, Lapwai, derives from a Nez Perce word meaning "place of butterflies."
The establishment of the Lapwai Reservation was defined by the Treaty of June 9, 1863, however, this treaty is viewed controversially as it significantly reduced the Tribe’s land base. Subsequent agreements made on May 27, 1887, and May 1, 1893, further shaped the reservation’s boundaries. These agreements led to the allotment of 180,370.09 acres to 1,895 individual Nez Perce Indians. An additional 2,170.47 acres were reserved for agency, school, mission, and cemetery purposes, while 32,020 acres of timber land were set aside for the tribe. The remaining land was opened to public settlement by a presidential proclamation issued on November 8, 1895. The history of the Nez Perce Tribe is marked by both resilience and tragedy. In 1877, a conflict with the U.S. Army led to the Nez Perce War and the forced removal of many Nez Perce people from their homeland. Despite these hardships, the Nez Perce Tribe has persevered and is actively working to revitalize its language, culture, and economy. The story of the Lapwai Reservation is an integral part of the narrative of Idaho Indian Reservations.
Lemhi Reservation
The Lemhi Reservation, unlike the others listed, is no longer in existence. It was established for the Lemhi Shoshone. It was created through an unratified treaty of Sept. 24, 1868; Executive order, Feb. 12, 1875; agreement of May 14. 11,80, ratified by act of Feb. 23,1889. The Lemhi reservation was 64,000 acres.
Disbanded Reservations
In addition to the four existing reservations, two former reservations existed in Idaho but were later disbanded:
- Fort Lemhi Reservation: As noted above, this reservation was established for the Lemhi Shoshone people.
- Kootenai Reservation: Little specific information is readily available about the Kootenai Reservation, suggesting it was likely a smaller or less formally established reserve that did not endure.
The disbandment of these reservations reflects the ongoing pressures faced by Native American tribes in Idaho and the shifting policies of the U.S. government. The story of Idaho Indian Reservations is a testament to the ongoing struggle for indigenous rights.
In conclusion, the Idaho Indian Reservations represent a complex and multifaceted aspect of the state’s history. They are physical spaces where Native American tribes continue to maintain their cultural identities, exercise their sovereignty, and strive for economic self-sufficiency. While the history of these reservations is often marked by hardship and injustice, it is also a story of resilience, adaptation, and the enduring spirit of the indigenous peoples of Idaho. Understanding the history, tribes, and legal frameworks surrounding these reservations is crucial for fostering greater awareness, respect, and understanding of Native American cultures and issues in Idaho.