Spokane Warriors
As part of the Uniquely Spokane Series, this video explores a notable moment in Spokane Tribal history captured in a photograph taken at Fort Spokane during the transition from a military fort to a federal boarding school.
According to Spokane Tribal historian Warren Seyler, the men gathered in this historic image were Spokane warriors who volunteered to serve during the Spanish-American War. Their willingness to fight reflected not only support for the United States, but also a deep commitment to protecting their homeland, families, and people.
The warriors requested permission to serve in their traditional war attire, a request that was ultimately denied. As a result, they did not join the conflict. Their story stands as a powerful reminder of the courage, patriotism, and dedication of Spokane Tribal members during a pivotal period in American and Tribal history.
Mattie 3 Mountains
As part of the Uniquely Spokane Series, this video highlights the story of Mattie Three Mountain, a Spokane Tribal member whose life reflects a significant period of change for the Spokane people.
Through historical photographs and commentary from Spokane Tribal Historian, Warren Seyler, this profile explores the experiences of the Three Mountain family during the transition to reservation life and the efforts of Tribal members to adapt to changing conditions in the Inland Northwest.
The story also reflects the legacy of Chief Three Mountain, who helped establish an agricultural community in the Deep Creek area as Spokane Tribal members adapted to a changing world and worked to preserve their families and way of life.
The Chewelah People
As part of the Uniquely Spokane Series, this video explores the history of the Chewelah people, whose homeland is the Chewelah Valley of northeastern Washington.
According to Spokane Tribal historian Warren Seyler, the Chewelah people occupied a unique position between the Spokane and Colville peoples and shared cultural and family ties with neighboring communities, including the Pend Oreille (Ponderay) and Kalispel tribes. Because of their location, generations of intermarriage connected Chewelah families to both Spokane and Colville communities.
During the reservation era, many Chewelah families traveled to Fort Spokane, the regional Indian agency, and enrolled as members of the Spokane Tribe. Others joined the Colville communities across the Columbia River. Today, these historic family connections continue to unite Tribal communities throughout the Inland Northwest.
John & Minnie Stevens
As part of the Uniquely Spokane Series, this video explores the life and legacy of John Stevens, a respected Spokane Tribal leader whose influence continues to be felt within the Spokane Tribe today.
Although not a chief, John Stevens served as a prominent family leader and community figure among the people of Chief Spokan Garry. Historical accounts describe how he learned English, reading, writing, and biblical teachings from Chief Garry during the establishment of the Spokane community near present-day Hillyard.
Inspired by Chief Spokan Garry’s dedication to education, John Stevens continued those efforts by teaching Spokane children and helping pass knowledge to future generations. Interviews from the early 1900s recount his important role in educating Tribal youth and supporting his community during a period of significant change.
Today, the Stevens family remains an important part of the Spokane Tribe, carrying forward a legacy of leadership, education, and service.