>La Grande Observer | Union and Wallowa Counties' News Leader

Baker City

Plains Indian Historian Michael "Bad Hand" Terry will be at the National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center from today through Sunday.

Terry will be in the Leo Adler Theater in the Interpretive Center between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. each day demonstrating and discussing the way of life, traditions, weapons, tools, dress and equipment of the Great Plains Tribes. Visitors will be able to chat with Terry and ask questions about the rich variety of clothing and equipment he has made using traditional Plains Indian methods.

Terry has devoted his life to learning about — and reliving as closely as possible — early American Indian culture.

Through his various works and activities he tries to dispel misconceptions, stereotypes, and historical inaccuracies while sharing in a positive, upbeat way what he has learned from his studies and experiences.

His skills include American Indian historian, lecturer, stuntman, replica maker and artist.

"Through the various mediums I use, whether it be my book, ‘Daily Life in a Plains Indian Village,' lecturing, making replicas, or doing films, I try to share with people my enthusiasm for and knowledge of the 18th and 19th century Plains Indian culture," Terry said.

"Bringing it to life in living color, smells, and textures helps all people feel in touch with that culture. I believe it reminds people of all races that we share the same roots."

For more information and photographs, visit Terry's Web site at www.warriorsplus.com.

In addition to Terry's performances, the Interpretive Center's exhibit "Ezra Meeker: 70 Years on the Oregon Trail" is still on display in the Flagstaff Gallery. The exhibit showcases Meeker's life and his multiple trips he took across the Oregon Trail to promote preservation of the route.

The National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center is open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily. Admission is $5, free for children 15 and under. Federal passes are accepted.

The Interpretive Center is five miles east of Baker City on Highway 86. To get there, take Exit 302 from I-84.

For more information call 541-523-1843 or visit the Web site at oregontrail.blm.gov.