More than 250 artifacts, regalia, photographs, and documents comprise the Lloyd Family Indian Artifact Collection. While the collection contains many well-preserved examples of traditional Indian crafts and truly wonderful pieces of art, it is the family history associated with these items that make them museum treasures.
In the 1850s, a former member of the Oregon Volunteer Militia, Albert G. Lloyd, negotiated a treaty with the Palouse people to use Indian land. In exchange, the Indian people retained the use of a traditional campsite on the property.
Through the years, trust grew between the Lloyd family and their Indian neighbors, the bonds of friendship strengthened by the frequent exchange of gifts. This positive relationship continued into the 1940s, and the gifts the Lloyds received were carefully stored away.
Now, as we appreciate the vibrancy of color in woven bags, embroidery, baskets, and beadwork, we embrace a remarkable example for our time, a story of friendship between two very different cultures.