Parma in Canyon County, Idaho — The American West (Mountains)
Marie Dorion
She and her two infant children were sole survivors of a mid-January Bannock Indian clash at John Reid's fur trade post 6 miles west of here. So they had to set out with two horses on a 200-mile retreat through deep mountain snow. Finally a Columbia River band of Walla Walla Indians rescued them in April.
Erected by Idaho Historical Society. (Marker Number 78.)
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Native Americans. In addition, it is included in the Idaho State Historical Society series list. A significant historical year for this entry is 1811.
Location. 43° 46.787′ N, 116° 55.944′ W. Marker is in Parma, Idaho, in Canyon County. Marker is on Parma Road, 0 miles Parma Road, on the left when traveling west. Located close to the Old Fort Boise Replica at the east entrance to the city. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: Parma ID 83660, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within 8 miles of this marker, measured as the crow flies. Old Fort Boise (here, next to this marker); Fort Boise (a few steps from this marker); Old Oregon Trail (within shouting distance of this marker); a different marker also named Old Oregon Trail (approx. 6.1 miles away in Oregon); Starvation Camp (approx. 6.1 miles away in Oregon); Old Fort Boise Snake River Crossing Kiosk (approx. 6.1 miles away in Oregon); Lower Boise (approx. 7.7 miles away); The South Alternate Route of the Oregon Trail (approx. 7.8 miles away in Oregon). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Parma.
Regarding Marie Dorion. Marie Dorian was the wife of a Canadian half-breed interpreter, Pierre Dorion. She was wintering in a cabin near Parma in January 1814 when word came that nearby Indians were on the warpath. Marie and her two children alone escaped and fled westward. They swam icy rivers, trudged across snow deserts, and climbed up canyons. After three months and nearly starving, they were rescued by friendly Walla Walla Indians. They finished their journey in an act of courage and endurance.
Credits. This page was last revised on October 21, 2020. It was originally submitted on August 28, 2009, by Rebecca Maxwell of Boise, Idaho. This page has been viewed 3,629 times since then and 37 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3. submitted on August 28, 2009, by Rebecca Maxwell of Boise, Idaho. 4. submitted on October 20, 2019, by Barry Swackhamer of Brentwood, California. • Craig Swain was the editor who published this page.