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Monday November 23, 2009    2:48 AM
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Questions and Answers about the Spokane Indians
 

What language did they speak?
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The Spokane Indians spoke in their own language. But they could understand people from the neighboring tribes of the Coeur d'Alenes, the Flatheads, the Sanpoil, and the Colville tribes.(1) These tribes spoke a language that was very similar to the language of the Spokanes. Scientists now call these languages Salish, or Salishan.

Their neighbors to the South - the Nez Perce, Umatillas, etc. spoke a very different language. Scientists call these languages Shapitan. But there were members of both tribes who could speak both languages.

There are only a few people left who can speak the Spokane language fluently. The last native speakers could pass away within ten years.










Last Updated
December 24, 2004
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The Wellpinit School District serves all students on the Spokane Indian Reservation.
Our student body of 570 enjoys one of the most technologically advanced schools in Eastern Washington.
We take pride in keeping our students up to date with the latest advancements in education and technology.
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