Sign Text for Idaho Landmark #309:
A Massachusetts Congregationalist, Smith spent two years here learning the Nez Perce language and starting a mission.
Coming here May 10, 1839, to study with Lawyer, an important Nez Perce leader, he stayed to work on an Indian dictionary and to hold daily religious classes each spring and winter. After spending six months in a “mere hovel,” he finished a comfortable home and started a garden of several acres. But he never got used to pioneer life here. Leaving Kamiah April 19, 1841, he moved to a mission in Hawaii.
More about the Asa Smith Mission:
This sign leaves out one person and a lot of personality. Asa and Sarah Smith originally had their sights set on Siam (Thailand), but it was too expensive. They were originally set to take over the Whitman mission in Walla Walla, Washington, called Waiilatpu, but the fellow named Lawyer convinced them to set up shop at Kamiah instead.
The”Indian dictionary” that the sign mentions was the first Nez Perce dictionary and grammar book, which ultimately helped save the language from extinction! Mr. Smith was also a huge critic of his neighboring missioner, Henry Spalding, for trying to turn the migatory Nez Perce into stationary farmers!
Not happy with their post, the Smiths only lasted here for three years when they were ordered to leave in retaliation for events in Walla Walla. They chose Hawaii as their next stop, not just for the beaches and piña coladas but because Mrs. Smith was very sick and Mr. Smith was depressed! They stayed in Hawaii until 1846!
How Can I #HelpTheHelpers?
- Volunteer with the Idaho State Historical Society!
- Become a member of the Idaho State Historical Society!
- Be a responsible visitor! Please respect the signs and pathways, and treat all structures and artifacts with respect. They’ve endured a lot to survive into the present. They’ll need our help to make it into the future!
How Do I Get There?
W side of Highway 12
0.6 miles south of Mill Road
Kooskia, ID 83539
(Take Me There!)
When Should I Visit?
Whenever the mood strikes you!