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Nez Perce National Historical ParkJoseph band, Nespelem Washington, circa 1897. Nez Perce National Historical Park/NPS photo. NEPE-HI-562
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Nez Perce National Historical Park
History & Culture
 

"We did not travel here; we are of this land. We did not declare our independence; we have always been free."

-Nez Perce Tribal Executive Committee

The stories of the Nez Perce tell us that they have been part of this landscape since time immemorial; they have always been here.  Nez Perce National Historical Park commemorates the contributions the Nez Perce have made and help protect and preserve sites, stories, and artifacts associated with their history and culture. Join us in learning the story of the Nez Perce and the role they played in shaping our collective past and their vision for the present and future.

 Petroglyphs at Buffalo Eddy. A priceless resource that provides a window to our past
Help Protect our Shared Past
Things to remember when visiting the park
more...
Heart of the Monster, near Kamiah Idaho.  

Did You Know?
In Nez Perce country, the landscape tells stories. The lump of basalt near Kamiah, Idaho represents the Heart of a Monster. Coyote battled and killed a monster and from the drops of the creature's blood the Nez Perce were created.

Last Updated: September 18, 2006 at 09:09 EST