Nez Perce Tribe Education Department brings home presenter Otis Halfmoon

Kooskia, ID – The Nez Perce Tribe Education Department hosts various events that incorporate the culture of Nimiipuu but also ensuring that our history continues to be shared.

On Wednesday, July 1, 2026, the series ‘Remembering the Summer of 1877″ continued at Clear Creek, which was historically the Looking Glass camp, and the Clearwater battles. This educational session focused on Nez Perce history and the importance of honoring our ancestors with commemoration of the Nez Perce war memorials; June 17, August 9, and October 5.

This year’s presenter featured Otis Halfmoon. Otis Halfmoon is an enrolled member of the Nez Perce Tribe (Nimiipuu) and a respected cultural leader, educator, and advocate for the preservation of Indigenous history, culture, and traditional knowledge. Throughout his career, he has worked to protect and share the stories, values, and heritage of the Nez Perce people through education, cultural interpretation, and public service. His dedication to strengthening cultural understanding and ensuring that future generations remain connected to their history has made him a valued voice within the Tribe and beyond.

Clearwater Battlefield History & map are from the National Park Service website: https://www.nps.gov/nepe/learn/historyculture/clearwater-battlefield-history.htm

“In the weeks following the Battle at White Bird, General Oliver O. Howard pursued the Nez Perce across the Reservation. After crossing two rivers, the Salmon and the South fork of the Clearwater, the General caught up with them. On July 11, 1877, Howard crossed the South Fork of the Clearwater above the Nez Perce camp hoping to take it by surprise. Alert Nez Perce, however, foiled his plan and the first day’s fighting came to a draw.

On July 12, Howard used infantry, cavalry, and artillery to gain the upper hand. In the face of this force, the Nez Perce began to slowly withdraw towards Kamiah. While Howard captured their camp and a great deal of supplies, he did not aggressively pursue the Nez Perce. They went north to Kamiah and began to head east, over the Lolo Trail to western Montana.”