From the Archives - Nov. 3, 2022

"The documentary, 'Idaho's Forgotten War' profiles the courage and faith of 67 Idaho Kootenai people and the extraordinary Kootenai woman, Amy Trice, who declared war on the U.S. government in 1974 to save her people.

“Robbed of their lands, culture, and hunting rights, the Kootenai people moved from place to place within a small isolated town called Bonners Ferry, Idaho. Far away from a way of life that no longer existed, the Kootenai people faced complete annihilation. By 1974, the Kootenai people experienced extreme poverty. Homes given to the Kootenais by the federal government were decaying with broken windows and holes in the roof, providing minimal shelter to their owners. When a Tribal Elder freezes to death on a cold winter's day inside his unheated home, Amy and her people fear it is only a matter of time before their entire Tribe disappears.

The film documents the stories of the courageous young Idaho Kootenai woman and the people who experienced the war. 'Idaho's Forgotten War' will raise awareness about the last American Indian war that was declared against the U.S. government on Sept. 20, 1974. This documentary will inspire viewers to believe in a better way of live and smaller Tribes to remain resilient in seeking federal recognition for their people.

From Idaho's forgotten history comes the true story about a Kootenai woman and her courageous spirit that started a bloodless war and helped the Kootenai people rise out of the ashes to become a prosperous Indian nation.”

These words were written by filmmaker Sonya Rosario when R.I. Productions released the film "Idaho's Forgotten War" in 2010. In June of that year, the film was shown at the Boundary County Museum honoring Amy Trice and her Kootenai people. This photo was taken at that memorable event.

In honor of Native American Heritage Month, the Kootenai Tribe of Idaho will present the film "Idaho's Forgotten War" at 6 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 5 in the Boundary County Museum's Portrait Hall. After the film, there will be a question-and-answer session with Tribal Chairwoman, Jennifer Porter. All are welcome. Admission is free.

The Boundary County Historical Society and Museum, 7229 Main, Bonners Ferry, Idaho, sponsors this column.

Visit the museum Thursday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., and you can visit the website at www.boundarycountymuseum.org or the Museum’s Facebook page for historical photos and stories, and to see upcoming events. Or we can be reached at doyouremember@meadowcrk.com or telephone 208-267-7720. Thank you for your continued support.