Washington’s Sacajawea State Park is located at the confluence of the Snake and Columbia Rivers. In explaining the cultural and historical significance of this place, many historic photographs of Indians are on display in the park and in the Sacajawea Museum which is located in the park.
According to one display:
“The Wanapum, Yakama, Walulapum (Walla Walla), Umatilla, Palouse and Nez Perce have called this place home since time immemorial. The people thrived here, using an intimate knowledge of the land and cooperatively sharing the gifts of the earth.”
According to the display:
“The extended family of Palouse, Wanapum and Yakama people lived in a communal mat lodge near the present site of Sacajawea State Park.”
According to the display:
“Ceremonies of thanksgiving ensure earth’s continued bounty. In spring, the first gathering of plants and the return of salmon are reaffirmed through first food feasts. The people gather to celebrate this renewal and sing ritual songs thanking the salmon for giving its life to feed the people. Such ceremonies remind people that traditional laws must be observed.”
According to the display:
“Since time immemorial, Plateau people have recognized they share a common home with salmon. Tradition emphasizes the reciprocal relationship between the two. When people respect streams and rivers, salmon will return to spawn. This idea of stewardship is one all can embrace and helps protect our natural resources for future generations.”
Indians 101
Twice each week, Indians 101 explores American Indian cultures, histories, museums, biographies, arts, and current concerns. More from this series:
Indians 101: Choctaw Government
Indians 101: The Foundation of the Modoc War
Indians 101: Indian Conflicts 150 Years Ago, 1869
Indians 101: Gertrude Simmons Bonnin, Writer, Musician, and Activist
Indians 101: Imposing Laws on the Nez Perce
Indians 101: The Zuni and the Spanish in the 16th Century
Indians 101: Some Plateau Beaded Bags (Art Diary)
Indians 101: The California Culture Area (Photo Diary)