6009163 Homage To Bear Paw Ornament

The Battle of Bear Paw was the final engagement of the Nez Perce War of 1877. Following a 1,200-mile running battle from Western Idaho into Montana, the U.S. Army finally managed to corner the Nez Perce tribe, who were led by Chief Joseph and whose surrender speech famously ended with the words “From where the sun now stands I will fight no more forever.” Known for their distinctively spotted horses, the Nez Perce were assured they would be allowed to keep their prized herd of nearly a thousand mounts, but it was a promise that was broken. It wouldn’t be until 1937 that the tribe initiated a selective breeding program that brought the Appaloosa back to life.

Artist: Cheryl A. Harris