Nezperce was surveyed the year before the
Nez Perce Reservation was opened to homesteading on November 3, 1895,
and people flocked in to claim land. The town was likely named
after the Reservation and soon had nearly 2,000 residents. It is
still a thriving agricultural area, but the population has declined to
about 525. It was named the county seat in 1911 when Lewis County
was formed.
Many church, fraternal, and service
organizations contribute to the town's activities. The County
Courthouse furnishes employment for a number of citizens, but farming
and grain handling, aerial spraying, and related businesses are the main
occupations.
Nezperce Prairie Day in July features
class reunions, a parade, games for kids of all ages, and a melodrama is
performed by the SRO players. Nezperce is also the home of the
county fair each September with exhibits from all parts of the county. |