| Ancient History of the Eastern Shoshone Tribe |
The petroglyphs chipped into the sandstone cliffs of an area known as Castle Gardens are on of the finest examples of the area’s rock art and are open to the public. Historians believe that petroglyphs were ways to record history, share stories, communicate spiritual messages, and mark important places. The walls of Castle Gardens are covered by the ancient Native American records. To reach Castle Gardens, head east from Riverton across more than 40 miles of high plains. The petroglyphs are found on an outcropping of rocks. Signs will direct visitors to paths and parking. Many sites are still on the Reservation but do not have public access and are considered sacred. Most of the petroglyphs and pictographs, Sheep-eater Indian traps, and teepee circles are over 1000 years old. An extensive 1000 year old archaeological dig is located in the middle of the Riverton landfill. Many of these sites are unmarked to protect the historical record, but tours are available through the tribal offices. To see Ancient History of Sheep-Eaters: Other Good Resources for Learning About the Sheepeaters:
The National Bighorn Sheep Interpretive Center, Dubois, Wyoming
Cultural Sites Fort Washakie is the oldest community on the reservation. Originally called Fort Brown, the name was changed in 1878 to honor Chief Washakie. The legendary Buffalo Soldiers-the name given to U.S. Calvarymen of African descent-were stationed at Fort Washakie in the late 1800s. Today many of the original military buildings can be seen in the Fort Washakie Historic District. Fort Washakie
Fort Washakie, Wyoming Fort Washakie is nationally significant representing Indian and Military affairs of the post Civil War period. Its namesake relates to one of the outstanding Indian Chiefs of Western America, Shoshone Chief Washakie. The Fort Washakie story represents one of the most notable examples of successful Indian-white relations in the Western United States. The fort was first established to protect the Shoshone and Bannock Indian Reservation against the wandering hostile Indian enemies of these two tribes. This protection was also extended to the miners of the nearby Sweetwater region. During the 1870s and 1880s Fort Washakie served a secondary function in providing a convenient supply base and springboard for expeditions entering Yellowstone National Park and the Big Horn country. Photo of Fort Washakie, Wyoming Territory 1883 Historic Blockhouse served as Headquarters for the 9th and 10th Cavalry More Fort Washakie Historic Photos and Information: |
