History: Finding a place for Washoe culture

Publisher’s note: This is from the July 1973 Lake Tahoe Historical Society newsletter.

By Mike Magliari, Lake Tahoe Historical Society

Until recently, little research was done concerning the Washoe Indians. Aside from the Washoe Indian Trail on Taylor Creek and Dat-so-la-lee basket collections, there wasn’t much one could see pertaining to Lake Tahoe’s earlier inhabitants. Most local historical literature we have is devoted to events dating back only as far Fremont’s discovery of the Lake in 1844.

But now, a major investigation of the Washoe’s is being carried out by a team from the University of Nevada, working under a $6,000 grant, that is making an archaeological survey of the Taylor Creek area. This survey will cover the Fallen Leaf region from the creek to Glen Alpine. The purpose of the investigation is to determine the extent of the Washoe inhabitation of the area, which was once their summer home before they were place on reservation in the Carson Valley.

Mr. Elliot Graham of the Forest Service stated that the Forest Service is interested in the investigation because they want to be sure that the future construction of campsites near Fallen Leaf will not destroy the remains of the Indian culture.

The team in its first week, has already discovered four living sites along with grinding stones. Some of these remains are 3,000 years old. The general result of the survey will be made public, however specific location of sites will not be, in order to prevent destruction of the sites by rock-hounds and collectors.

The Washoe Indian tribe, located in Woodfords and the Carson Valley, is also interested in the survey. The Wahoe’s wish to build an Indian cultural center and Indian campground on land leased form the Forest Service. Their center will probably be located near the Visitors Center near Taylor Creek. The Washoes have already taken out an application for the land. They will use the center to tell the history of their tribe and to sell Indian crafts.

The idea of an Indian cultural center is a good one and will provide a much needed addition to the historical development of the Lake Tahoe region.