Indian Agency Period The first Nez Perce Reservation was created by the Treaty of 1855. Due to the large influx of gold miners trespassing on the Reservation, the Bureau of Indian Affairs established the Nez Perce Agency in 1861 in Spalding. The Indian Agent was supposed to keep the peace, mediate between Indians, settlers and the Army; administer treaties; promote the welfare of Indians; represent government interest; and supervise the allotments of supplies and lands on the Reservation. The Agency remained at Spalding until 1904 when it was moved to Fort Lapwai. Today, the Agent's House (painted the original bright green) can still be seen near Lapwai Creek. Cemeteries Burial sites are considered sacred by the Nez Perce people, therefore the cemeteries at the Spalding Site are to be respected by all visitors. You may visit these Tribal cemeteries, but please do not stand on marked graves, take rubbings from headstones or touch memorial items left on the graves. Eating, drinking or any type of recreational activity within the cemeteries is considered inappropriate behavior. Material for this Web page was a cooperative effort between the Northwest Interpretive Association and the National Park Service.