JOSEPH — “The Nez Perce in Oregon; Removal and Return,” is an exhibit created by the Josephy Center for Arts and Culture after receiving a Capital History Gateway Exhibit Sponsorship in 2022.

This Oregon state sponsorship program supports nonprofit organizations and museums to produce exhibits that increase interest in Oregon’s history. Rich Wandschneider, library director at the Josephy Center, successfully applied to the state after researching and compiling information, writing the proposal, and inviting review by Nez Perce elders to ensure the accuracy and authenticity of the story of the removal and return of the Nez Perce in Northeast Oregon.

The story is told in this exhibit with text by Wandschneider, creatively displayed with Nez Perce artwork, historical documents and photographs, as well as other illustrations. The exhibit’s creative display was designed by local artist and Josephy Library Assistant Kolle Kahle Riggs. Brian Oliver built the wooden boards on which the media is displayed.

Wandschneider believes that now is the time to tell this story. He said we are “riding a wave” of interest, acceptance and understanding about the indigenous people of this country, including the Nez Perce. He cites the many efforts within Wallowa County, and Oregon, to return the land to the Nez Perce, to restore rivers, encourage the return of salmon, and enable the Nez Perce to resume the tradition of collecting first foods on their ancestral land that has been so integral to their culture.

This exhibit educates and informs not only the people of Wallowa County and Oregon, but all who visit the virtual or physical exhibit.

The Nez Perce of Oregon virtual exhibit is currently live on the state capitol’s website. Eventually, the physical exhibit, currently on display at the Josephy Center, will travel to the atrium of the State Capitol building in Salem. A 2025 opening date is anticipated.

The public is invited to a soft opening of this exhibit at the Josephy Center, 403 N. Main St., on Jan. 30 from noon to 1 p.m. The center is hopeful that the exhibit can be displayed in other locations on its way to Salem where people can continue to learn about this important story.

The virtual exhibit can be viewed on the Oregon State Capitol website, oregoncapitol.com/events-and-exhibits-exhibits.

For more information, call the Josephy Center at 541-432-0505 or visit the website, josephy.org.