Wasco
The Wasco are a Native American tribe originally located along the Columbia River, known for their rich cultural practices and strong communal ties. Historically, they were contiguous with the Wishram tribe, sharing linguistic and cultural traits until the Wasco absorbed the Wishram. Both tribes relied heavily on the abundant resources of the Columbia River for sustenance and trade, gathering various roots, particularly lomatium, and engaging in trade for valuable furs with European settlers after the early 19th century. The Wasco were particularly recognized for their intricate weaving techniques, producing soft, cylindrical blankets that reflected their artistic heritage. The Dalles served as a significant hub for the Wasco, enhancing their economic position as they engaged with land-based traders following the Lewis and Clark expedition. By 1937, the combined population of the Wasco and Wishram was recorded at 351 individuals. Today, descendants of the Wasco tribe reside primarily on the Warm Springs and Yakima reservations, where they participate in various employment opportunities.
Wasco
Category: Tribe
Culture area: Plateau
Language group: Upper Chinookan
Primary location: The Dalles and lower Columbia River, Oregon
The Wasco and Wishram were contiguous tribes, sharing linguistic and cultural characteristics. The stronger Wasco ultimately absorbed the other group. Both groups maintained themselves through trading and exploiting the resources of the Columbia River and gathering various roots, particularly lomatium. They were noted for their weaving techniques and design in making soft cylindrical blankets.
After the Meriwether Lewis and William Clark expedition of 1805-1806, the first sustained European American contacts were with land-based traders desiring sea otter, beaver, fox, and other furs. The acquiring of European trade goods enhanced the Wasco-Wishram position on the Columbia River, which was the main trade route. The combined population of the Wasco-Wishram in 1937 was 351. Today some of the Wasco live on the Warm Springs and Yakima reservations, employed both on and off the reservations.