Kalispel Tribe of Indians

Like other tribes, the Kalispels have been profoundly influenced by their environment, the greatest cultural influence seem to have come from the environment created by the Pend Oreille River which they call “ntxwe”, a Kalispel word which, it is said, symbolically reduces all other streams to an inferior status. It was from this river that Kalispel culture arose. Here our people built winter villages and established summer root digging camps. Surely the Kalispel would say “The river and we are of one mind”, for even today we are known as “The People of the Oreille”, and we have withstood unimagined hardships to maintain our lives in harmony with “ntxwe”.

The Kalispel Tribe of Indians is rich in heritage. Our traditions have taught us cultural pride, and working together continues the advancement of our people. Our children are raised in a caring environment and grow up to lead responsible and productive lives.

The Kalispel Tribe is recognized as a sovereign nation by the Federal Government, which means the Tribe has the power to create its own government and laws.