This is a photo of the two remaining wick - i - ups in Yellowstone National Park.
According to the History of Man in Yellowstone, these wick - i - ups were used about 1800 by Tukuarikas or Sheepeater Indians. Tuka means mountain sheep and Aika means eat or Sheepeater Indians. They were a small tribe of about 400 who were friendly but, timid people. The only Indians to live permanently in Yellowstone. They were the weakest of all mountain clans, they did not possess horses or firearms, their tools were of the crudest type. They were a slender, wiry people who wore furs and skins.
The Sheepeaters traveled on foot in very small groups accompanied by large dogs which were sometimes packed or used to pull travois. In the winter they lived in caves along the Gardner River, the summer season they ventured to the higher plateaus following the game. There they erected skin covered lodges or wick - i - ups as seen in the photo.
The Tukuarikas vanished from the scene as the white man invaded their refuge. They left without a contest for ownership or treaty of cession, however to see these shelter withstand the elements of time for so many years makes this beautiful area spiritual to us.
Wishing you a Happy Holiday Season and a healthy 2021.
Craig and Jackie