Chief Joseph’s Coat
Sioux origin
During the battle and siege at Bear Paw, there was a brief halt to the hostilities while Colonel Nelson Miles consulted with Chief Joseph. During this interlude, Second Lieutenant Lowell Jerome of the Second Cavalry, rode into Nez Perce lines. He was held by the Nez Perce and taken hostage when Joseph did not return. Jerome was later exchanged for Chief Joseph. It is claimed that this coat was given to Jerome by Joseph and was worn during the battle and siege at Bear Paw. Jerome donated this coat to his alma mater, the United States Military Academy at West Point. The coat is on loan to Big Hole National Battlefield from the US Military Academy Museum.
Wool, cotton, weasel tails, mirrors, beads. L 82, W 54 cm
Nez Perce National Historical Park, BIHO 1256