Origins of Crow Agencies in Montana: Transitioning Beyond the Buffalo - Paperback

by Patty Molinaro (Author), Bill Yellowtail (Foreword by)

"We do not know how to commence farming, but we are all willing to try."--Crow leader Iron Bull

On May 7, 1868, the Treaty of Fort Laramie forever altered the Crow way of life, defining reservation boundaries and establishing a federal agency. Initially stationed at Fort Parker in 1869, the agency headquarters was later moved to Absaroka in 1875. These early agencies faced numerous challenges including the rapid westward expansion, violations of the treaty, land negotiations, railroad construction, educational obstacles, and a dwindling buffalo population. This situation necessitated the Crows to adopt farming, thought idyllic for transitioning them into American society. Faced with hunger and new struggles of subsistence, Crow leaders chose to adapt the skills necessary to sustain their tribe. Author Patty Molinaro recounts the shifting boundaries and historic pivotal period for the Crow nation.

Author Biography

A graduate of the University of Montana, Patricia Molinaro is author of Columbus and Stillwater County, Beartooth Mountains and Moccasins, Mining and Montana's 34th County. She has served as director in two Montana county museums and is presently on the board of Our Montana Inc., an organization promoting and preserving the heritage of Montana.