In 1934 under the leadership of the new Commissioner of the Bureau of Indian Affairs, John Cullier, the Indian Reorganization Act was enacted by Congress. This Act revered the past policies of forced “Americanization” and cultural assimilation of the Native American tribes. Notorious boarding schools were closed and local neighborhood day schools were built for the children to be educated.
In 1938, three new day schools were opened on the Fort Hall Reservation. Now only two remain. These two structures are the only known day schools remaining in Idaho. This day school, located near the site of the original military fort, this building will become a new tribal community center.
In addition to housing cultural events and meetings, there will be an interpretative area which will tell the stories of Indian culture and hardships during and after the cultural assimilation period. The front of the existing building will be restored to the original 1934 design. The rear of the building, which faces a large tree lined lawn, will facilitate current and historic tribal events.
The existing building is in reasonably good shape other than the damage caused by vandals. The structure needed some additional structural support to withstand the winter which has been recently completed by community volunteers.
The leadership of the Lincoln Creek Community District of the Shoshone Bannock Tribes is currently soliciting grants and funding for this exciting project. Should you wish to donate or help, please contact Trout Architects and we will connect you with the project managers.