The Kalispels' Food
[show Thoms map of PO River territory]
Because starvation was given as a reason for the move, the Kalispels food will be discussed.
The Kalispels' way of life for their food supply was dictated by the seasons and nature's cycles.
- No salmon on the Pend Oreille River, traveled to Kettle Falls.
- Traveled to hunt buffalo in the plains of Montana.
- Had an abundance of deer, fish, geese, ducks, wild berries, and roots.
It was not an easy place to live, severe winters brought heavy snowfalls and extremely cold weather.
David Thompson is the first white man to travel down the Pend Oreille River in 1809, 1810, and 1811. Camped with Kullyspells and traded for food with them.