Three Forks in Gallatin County, Montana — The American West (Mountains)
Native Americans
Photographed By Barry Swackhamer, July 27, 2021
1. Native Americans Marker
The Headwaters region was occupied for more than 11,000 years by bands of hunter and gatherers. Ample big game such as bison, elk and deer, and the abundant natural rock for tool making were prime attractions in prehistoric times.
The earliest identifiable Indians who lived year-round in these valleys were Shoshonean speaking people. Western tribes, after acquiring the horse in about 1720, came across the mountains to hunt buffalo in the Three Forks area. By the time white men arrived in 1805, the Blackfeet had forced these mounted but more poorly armed people back across the mountains. A treaty made in 1855 between the Indians and whites declared the Headwaters region to be "a common hunting-ground for 99 years, where all nations, tribes and bands on Indians may enjoy equal and uninterrupted privileges." Rapid settlement by the white man brought this treaty to an end in about nine years.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Native Americans. A significant historical year for this entry is 1720.
Location. 45° 53.798′ N, 111° 33.085′ W. Marker is in Three Forks, Montana, in Gallatin County. Marker is at the intersection of North Main Street (State Highway 2) and Cottonwood, on the left when traveling
this page online
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. European Interest in the Missouri (here, next to this marker); Fur Trade (here, next to this marker); Louisiana Purchase - 1803 (here, next to this marker); Lewis & Clark Arrive at the Headwaters July, 1805 (here, next to this marker); The Fur Trapper (here, next to this marker); Colter's Run 1808 (here, next to this marker); Three Forks Post - 1810 (here, next to this marker); Sacajawea Captured in 1800 (here, next to this marker). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Three Forks.
Photographed By Barry Swackhamer, July 27, 2021
2. Markers located next to the Three Forks Chamber of Commerce.
Credits. This page was last revised on February 28, 2022. It was originally submitted on February 28, 2022, by Barry Swackhamer of Brentwood, California. This page has been viewed 76 times since then and 9 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on February 28, 2022, by Barry Swackhamer of Brentwood, California.
