Nez Perce Culture at the Spalding Visitors Center, Idaho

We got a fascinating look at Nez Perce culture and history at the Spalding Visitors Center, the headquarters of the Nez Perce National Historical Park, located in Spalding in northwestern Idaho.

A 23-minute movie gave us an overview of tribal history, and we especially enjoyed the museum, filled with tribal artifacts, clothing, pictures and horse tack. I learned that the Nimiipuu, as the Nez Perce call themselves, have long been noted for their knowledge of horses.

Some medallions and matching beaded earrings on display caught my eye, and the Nez Perce cornhusk bags are especially prized. It was an outstanding introduction to the park's Spalding site, which covers 99 acres of historic buildings and cemeteries.

Spalding is on U.S. Highway 95, about 11 miles east of Lewiston. The Visitors Center (39063 U.S. Hwy. 95; 1-208-843-2261) is open daily.