LAPWAI MISSION The site is interpreted by a sign at an unpaved roadside pullout on the east side of U.S. Highway 95 approximately 12 miles south of Lewiston, Idaho. Here was the location of the earliest Christian missionary activity among the Nez Perce. This site interprets the impact that missionaries such as Henry Spalding had upon these peoples. Henry Harmon Spalding established Idaho's earliest mission near here, November 29, 1836, at a campsite chosen by the Nez Perce Indians. Ever since they met Lewis and Clark in 1805-06, the Nez Perce had wanted to find out more about the white man's ways. In 1831, a Nez Perce delegation went all the way to St. Louis, where they saw Clark again and asked for teachers. Spalding came west to answer their call. With Indian help, a house and assembly hall were built in 24 days. In two months, Mrs. Spalding started a mission school. In 1838, the mission was moved north along side the Clearwater River. We have now, through the astonishing favor of a kind Providence, a house 18 by 42 completed, with the exception of 2 doors, 2 windows & a part of the under floor. 18 feet of one end is devoted to ourselves, with cellar, stove and 2 windows. The remaining 24, with chimney and 2 windows is a school room and place of worship. Posts grooved and filled with small timber split. Roof first timber closely laid, then a layer of grass, upon which is a thick layer of clay. All the timber and stone for the building was brought by the Indians, & much of the labor of filling and putting on the roof. Eliza Spalding, February 16, 1837

	State: Idaho Unit: Spalding