Indian Nations of Montana: Crow

THE PEOPLE

About 75 percent of the Crow tribe's approximately 7,000 enrolled members live on or near the reservation.

In the Hidatsa language, this tribe was called "Apsalooke," which means "children of the large-beaked bird." Other Indian tribes called them the "sharp people" because it was thought they were crafty and alert as the bird for which they were named, probably the raven. White men later misinterpreted the word as "crow."

LOCATION

The Crow Reservation is in south-central Montana, bordered by Wyoming on the south with its northwestern boundary about 10 miles from Billings.

ECONOMY

For many years the vast coal deposits under the eastern portion of the reservation remained untapped. One mine is now in operation and providing royalty income and employment to tribal members. The Crow operate only a small portion of their irrigated or dry farm acreage and about 30 percent of their grazing land.

POINTS OF INTEREST

Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area and Yellowtail Dam, Fort Smith, MT 406-666-2412
The canyon features spectacular scenery, wildlife viewing, boating, fishing, and camping. There are two visitors centers - one at Fort Smith and one at Yellowtail Dam.

Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument / Reno-Benteen Battlefield, Crow Agency, MT 406-638-2621
These monuments commemorate the Indian victory over the Seventh Cavalry. The Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument features museum exhibits, an interpretive center and ranger-led programs.

Chief Plenty Coups State Park, Pryor, MT 406-252-1289
This is the home of the well-known Crow Chief, Plenty Coups. There is a display of Crow artifacts and a scenic picnic area.

Little Bighorn College, Crow Agency, MT 406-638-7211
The college is home to the Institute for MicroBusiness Development and offers associate's degrees in eight areas. Tours and lecture referrals are available.

For more information about the Crow Reservation, contact:
Crow Reservation, Crow Agency, MT 59022 406-638-2601