Father Ravalli

We have a new hero from Stevensville, a town nearby. Father Ravalli came to St Mary's Mission in 1845 and served until 1884. http://www.saintmarysmission.org/FatherRavalli.html

He is described as a 'priest, physician, pharmacist, sculptor, architect, machinist and friend to Native Americans'. Flathead Indians had requested some 'Black Robes' to come and live with them after they had heard stories from other tribes. They established themselves firstly at Fort Owen, then later at St Mary's Mission. Fort Owen was bought by Major John Owen and became a trading post, with the man himself acting as the Native Indian's representative in negotiations with the government when they took over their lands. http://fwp.mt.gov/lands/site_280846.aspx

Today we're off on a road trip and taking the next few days to travel to Red Lodge (arriving on Friday). We're going a long way round to take in Yellowstone Park. We're staying at Livingston tonight, Gardiner Tuesday and Wednesday and Cody on Thursday. We're not sure what Internet access we'll have but we'll be in touch as soon as we can.

Rachel x