Bill Yellowtail to Speak at Big Horn City Historical Society

On Sunday, November 24, beginning at 1 p.m., the Big Horn City Historical Society will host a program by Bill Yellowtail. He will talk about a new site on Upper Lodge Grass Creek, near his old home ranch, a Bozeman Trail era wagon train laager with a need for definitive documentation.

A laager (pronounced ‘logger’) is a camp or encampment, or an entrenched position that is defended against enemies.

“It is even more interesting when we suspect that the installation repurposed the drive lines from an old buffalo kill site. Then, to top it off, we discovered what is quite possibly a cache of Clovis artifacts,” Yellowtail said.

Slack added, “Bill is an absolute kind, outgoing gentleman who is generous in teaching us about the Crow traditions. He has offered to give us a tour of the site also!”

Bill Yellowtail grew up on his family’s cattle ranch on the Crow Indian Reservation. Holding a degree in geography from Dartmouth College, Yellowtail has been a rancher, educator, fishing guide, Montana State Senator and congressional candidate.

He was appointed by the Clinton administration to serve as Regional Administrator for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, with responsibility for six western states and 27 Indian Tribes. Yellowtail was honored with an appointment as Katz Professor in Native American Studies at Montana State University. With spouse Maggie Carlson, he now lives and works back on the family ranch.

The Big Horn City Historical Society meets on the 4th Sunday of every month at Big Horn Woman’s Club building.

There is a carry-in pot-luck lunch starting at 1:00 p.m., with the program following at 2:00. Those attending are asked to bring a salad or dessert or main dish or rolls. They also appreciate everyone’s help in setting up and closing down.

All are welcome to attend the programs.