Remembering the Bear River Massacre on the 150th Anniversary

Remembering the Bear River Massacre: A Forgotten Chapter of History

Explore the history and ongoing remembrance of the Bear River Massacre, where 300 Northwestern Shoshone lives were lost, and learn about efforts to keep their stories alive.

Bear River Massacre 3: Jason Walker, who is the chair of the Northwestern Band of the Shoshone Nation, speaks during the 150th anniversary memorial ceremony of the Bear River Massacre, Tuesday, Jan. 29, 2013 near Preston, Idaho. (Eli Lucero/Herald Journal)

Remembering the Bear River Massacre: 150 Years of Resilience and Remembrance - Every January 29, the Northwestern Band of Shoshone comes together to honor and remember the estimated 300 lives lost during the Bear River Massacre in 1863. This solemn event, hosted near the Utah-Idaho border, marks one of the darkest chapters in U.S. history, when a volunteer regiment of 200 men from California attacked and decimated the Shoshone community.

Known as "Never to Be Forgotten," the annual memorial not only commemorates those who were lost but also serves as a call to educate the public about this often-overlooked tragedy. Despite the massacre's devastating impact — leaving only a handful of survivors — Chairman Jason Walker emphasizes the resilience of the Northwestern Band of Shoshone, which today has a population of approximately 528 members.

Northwestern Band of Shoshone Chairman Jason Walker addresses the crowd during the Bear River Massacre memorial on January 29, 2011.

This year’s event includes prayers, music, historical recounts, and speeches by tribal leaders, with notable attendance by Utah’s Lieutenant Governor. The memorial also recognizes the repatriation of Shoshone remains from the Smithsonian Institution, which will be respectfully interred in the spring.

Patty Timbimboo-Madsen, the band’s cultural and natural resource manager, calls the massacre a "dirty little secret" of the nation's history but expresses optimism about growing acknowledgment and open dialogue. As Vice Chairman Darren Parry points out, raising awareness about the Bear River Massacre is crucial, as many remain unaware of its existence.

Ricky Haysuse, a member of the Northwestern Band of Shoshone, prays during the Bear River Massacre memorial on January 29, 2012.

By remembering this tragic event and sharing their stories, the Northwestern Band of Shoshone ensures that the Bear River Massacre is not forgotten and continues to advocate for justice, healing, and education.

Learn more about the Bear River Massacre and the Northwestern Shoshone’s efforts at Indian Country Today.

A drum group participates in the Bear River Massacre memorial near the Utah-Idaho border in 2010.

References and Further Reading

Indian Country Today Media Network | January 29 at 4:30pm | REMEMBERING THE BEAR RIVER MASSACRE ON THE 150TH ANNIVERSARY | By Simon Moya-Smith | Www.Facebook.Com