Chief Taholah Days celebration for Quinault’s 1855 treaty

From the fireworks on the Fourth of July, to the canoe races on the river or the boxing matches in the Community Center, and the myriad festivities from parade to Bingo, the Quinault Indian Nation celebrates over three days with something for everyone.

Chief Taholah Days July 3-5 is the annual commemoration of the 1855 Quinault Indian Nation Treaty, always held in the first week of July in Taholah.

The Quinault Treaty was signed by Isaac Stevens (1818-1862), Governor of Washington Territory, and by Quinault Chief Taholah and other chiefs, sub-chiefs, and tribal delegates on the Quinault River on July 1, 1855 and at Olympia, on January 25, 1856.

“For over a century and a half, the Quinault Treaty has been celebrated and widely recognized as a sacred and living document that protects and secures our Quinault culture, values, and sovereign interests. This year, we invite our friends and neighbors to join us as we celebrate the Treaty’s 159th anniversary,” said Quinault Indian Nation President Fawn Sharp.

Chief Taholah Days is known for its scenic canoe races, which utilize the centuries-old craftsmanship of hand carved canoes but with 21st Century high-powered motors. The fireworks on July 4 will be at the mouth of the Quinault River at dusk, and you can also stock up on fireworks at many of the Taholah fireworks stands, where they are on sale prior to the proceedings.

Chief Taholah Days also sponsors a boxing event, which sells out every year. The event is an open, non-sanctioned boxing event. The youngest contestants have ranged from 4-5 years old, up to 48 years old.

At times, licensed, amateur boxers have participated, who are matched with their counter-parts.

“While you are visiting, be sure to eat some of the best native food, including Indian tacos. There are also many family-friendly activities as well, including: Field sports, barbecue, talent show, horseshow tourney, co-ed volleyball, bingo, and a hypnotist,” a press release said.

Prizes are given out for most events, including the parade, talent show, volleball, horseshoe tournament, scavenger hunt and boxing matches. There is a $10 fee to enter the boxing event, a $20 team fee to compete in horseshoes, and $10 to the volleyball fee.

Participants and contestants are welcome. For more information or to sign up, contact Raven Bryson at (360) 276-8211, ext. 4610 or Misty Schmidt, ext. 5032.

Schedule

Tuesday, July 3

• Fun run/walk, 10 a.m., Fitness Center

• Family Fun Day, barbecue, 11 a.m.-1 p.m., Taholah School field

• Horsshoe tourney, 1:30 p.m., Sea Breeze Stadium

• Cultural competition, 3 p.m., Heritage Park

• Kids Kickball, 3 p.m., Taholah School field

• Canoe races, 6:30 p.m., Riverfront

• Boxing, 7 p.m., Community Center

• Dance, 9 p.m.-midnight, Heritage Park

Wednesday July 4

• Fun run/walk, 9-11 a.m., Community Center