Step back in time and experience the diverse culture and lives of three Columbia River Plateau tribes. It is the story told from the view of the Cayuse, Umatilla and Walla Walla peoples, as the name “Tamástslikt” translates into “to interpret.” The past comes to life with many exhibits highlighting historical photographs and videos, native artwork, ancient tools and artifacts, and replicas of traditional family dwellings.

The Tamástslikt Cultural Institute and Museum in northeast Oregon celebrates the story of the three tribes who have lived in this region for more than 10,000 years. The Institute is the only tribally owned and operated interpretive center on the Oregon Trail and is one of a handful of tribally owned museums on the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail. Tamastslikt has been certified by the National Park Service as a Lewis & Clark Trail interpretive site.

The Corps of Discovery, the famous expedition led by William Clark and Meriwether Lewis, visited this region in October of 1805 and again for two weeks during the spring of 1806. Local tribes welcomed and assisted Lewis and Clark. The Walla Walla made a very positive impression on Meriwether Lewis, who referred to them as the “most hospitable, honest, and sincere people that we have met with in our voyage.”

Members of the Lewis and Clark expedition successfully traded with the local Indians, gaining much needed tools and food.  The exchanges included multiple animals, Lewis’ dueling pistols, Captain Clark’s lieutenants sword, and medical care.

Call 541-429-7700 or visit https://www.tamastslikt.org/ for more information concerning operating hours, fees, directions, etc.

Credits and Sources:

Content for this Next Exit History site sponsored by the Lewis & Clark Trail Heritage Foundation. For more information visit http://lewisandclark.org/.

Bergon, Frank, ed. The Journals of Lewis and Clark.  Penguin Books, 1989.

Hodge, Frederick Webb. Handbook of American Indians North of Mexico. Washington,

D.C.: Smithsonian Institution, 1906.

The Tamástslikt Cultural Institute Online Website. https://www.tamastslikt.org/.