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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
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Tolo Lake  

Did You Know?
For centuries the Nez Perce used Tolo Lake or Tepalewam as a gathering place. In June, 1877 the Wallowa Nez Perce paused here before their final move to the Reservation. Brooding over past injustices, warriors raided homes on the Salmon River, precipitating events that would trigger the 1877 War.

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