Joseph, Oregon

Joseph, Oregon Chances are slim that I would have had an occasion to experience Joseph, Oregon if not for attending a family reunion at Wallowa Lake State Park a few miles to the south. Joseph is nestled at the base of the snow-capped Wallowa Mountains on the edge of the Eagle Cap Wilderness. The gateway to the awe- inspiring Hells Canyon, bordering Idaho. A myriad of art galleries, gift shops, specialty stores and cafes line main street. A colorful assortment of neatly manicured flower gardens adopted and tended by business owners exhibit pride in their community. Life size bronze statues from the seven local foundries placed strategically along main street provide an artistic touch and add a homey atmosphere to the small, charming community of 1000 residents. Joseph earned its name from Chief of the Wallowa Band of Nez Perce Indians . Chief Joseph was well respected by the tribes for his wisdom and leadership abilities. In 1877 the U.S. Government opened the valley to miners and settlers. Hostilities grew between the white settlers and the Nez Perce Warriors. Chief Joseph was one of the leaders of the Native Americans resistance to the white encroachment in the western United States. Ending his non-compliance to a 1863 treaty which allowed the U.S. Government to confine the Nez Perce to a reservation with what is known as the most famous surrender speech in history: “ I am tired, my heart is sick and sad, from where the sun stands now, I will fight no more forever” Each July hundreds of visitors converge on the tiny town when Chief Joseph Days are celebrated. I will always remember enjoying the slower paced lifestyle, the small town atmosphere and friendly people of the charming little town in the shadow of Wallowa Mountain.