Last updated: July 28, 2022
Place
Lapwai Mission
National Park Service
Quick Facts
Location:
46°25'1.87"N 116°48'9.78"W
Significance:
First location of the Spalding Mission established for teaching and preaching among the Nez Perce
Amenities
2 listed
Information, Parking - Auto
In 1836, Henry and Eliza Spalding accompanied Marcus and Narcissa Whitman across the Great Plains to open missions in the Pacific Northwest. The Spaldings selected a spot approximately two miles up Lapwai Creek and settled among the Nez Perce. At the beginning of January 1837, Eliza began to teach and Henry began to preach among the Nez Perce. By the summer, however, Spalding made the decision to relocate his mission because it was too hot and inundated with mosquitoes. In 1838, Henry Spalding and his wife moved their mission complex to the mouth of Lapwai Creek, some five miles away, where it would remain until 1838 when they fled Nez Perce country in the aftermath of the murders of Marcus and Narcissa Whitman at their mission in Walla Walla.
Getting to Lapwai Mission
A historical marker with information about the Lapwai Mission is located on the east side of U.S. Highway 95, about 12 miles south of Lewiston, Idaho.
Driving to Lapwai Mission
- From Lapwai, Idaho, head north on Main St S toward Birch Ave E. Then take a quick right onto Birch Ave E for 0.2 miles. Then turn left onto U.S. Highway 95 North for 0.8 miles. The highway pullout will be on the right.
- From Lewiston, Idaho, head northwest on 21st St toward 19th Ave. Then Use any lane to turn right onto U.S. Highway 12 East for 8.4 miles. Then continue onto U.S. Highway 95 South for 4.4 miles. The highway pullout will be on the left.
Things to Do at Lapwai Mission
Explore the Site
The Lapwai Mission no longer stands. The exact location of the mission is unknown, only the general location. On the highway pullout off of U.S. Highway 95, there is a historical marker about the impact that missionaries such as Henry Spalding had upon the Nez Perce.