In the winter of 1877, the U.S. Army attempted to remove Nez Perce tribal members from their ancestral lands, resulting in the imprisonment of many members and death of an infant.
Chief Redheart’s band of 33 members didn’t commit any crimes nor fight in any wars yet was apprehended under the guidance of Gen. Oliver Otis Howard.
A ceremony will be held 10 a.m. April 23 at the Fort Vancouver National Historic Site, 612 East Reserve St., to pay tribute to the Nez Perce Nation, tribal ancestors and address the injustice that was committed. The annual memorial will feature singing, speeches and a drum circle. The event is free and open to the public. Bringing blankets or lawn chairs is recommended.
It is hosted by the Nez Perce Nation in partnership with the city of Vancouver, The Historic Trust, Community Military Appreciation Committee and National Park Service.
