Tendoy
Tendoy, known as "The Climber," was a significant war chief of the Lemhi Bannock band following the death of his father, Kontakayak, in battle against the Blackfoot. He is recognized for his strategic alliance with Washakie, reflecting shared familial ties through his mother. Tendoy advocated for a cooperative approach to white settlement in the highlands of what is now Wyoming, distinguishing himself from many of his contemporaries who faced hardship as traditional hunting practices declined. His leadership focused on fostering trade relationships with settlers and miners, allowing his band to thrive economically even during turbulent times such as the Nez Perce War. In a notable act of federal recognition, President Grant issued an order in 1875 that permitted the Lemhi Bannocks to remain on their ancestral lands. However, in 1892, they were subsequently relocated to Fort Hall, Idaho, where Tendoy passed away. In honor of his contributions, a monument was erected by local residents after his death, highlighting his lasting impact on the community and his people's history.
Subject Terms
Tendoy
- Born: c. 1834
- Birthplace: Boise River, Oregon Country (now in Idaho)
- Died: May 9, 1907
- Place of death: Fort Hall, Idaho
Tribal affiliation: Bannock
Significance: Tendoy influenced his people to work peaceably with the white settlers of Wyoming
When his father, Kontakayak, a Bannock war chief, died in combat with the Blackfoot, Tendoy (The Climber) became war chief of the Lemhi Bannock band. An ally of Washakie, to whom he was related on his mother’s side, Tendoy believed in accommodating white settlement in the highlands of what would become Wyoming.
Unlike many Bannocks, who became destitute with the demise of their hunting economy, Tendoy and his band prospered by maintaining a trading relationship with white settlers, miners, and others. Even during the Nez Perce War, he maintained that his people would prosper by seeking accommodation. In February, 1875, President Grant issued an order allowing the Lemhi Bannocks to remain on their ancestral lands. In 1892, however, they were removed to Fort Hall, Idaho. After Tendoy died there, local residents built a monument in his honor.