Apsaalooke

Crow

About 75 percent of the Crow tribe's approximately 10,000 or more enrolled members live on or near the reservation. Eighty-five percent speak Crow as their first language. This tribe was called "Apsaalooke," which means "children of the large-beaked bird." White men later misinterpreted the word as "crow." Chief Plenty Coups was the last chief to gain that status in the traditional Crow manner. He lived until 1932, leaving his land and home as a park for all people.

Ed Schroll

Crow Fair, Crow Agency

Chief Plenty Coups State Park

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. They maintain a buffalo herd of 300 head.

POINTS OF INTEREST

BIGHORN CANYON NATIONAL RECREATION AREA AND YELLOWTAIL DAM

Bighorn Canyon features spectacular scenery, wildlife viewing, boating, fishing and camping. On the Montana side, there is one visitor center at Yellowtail Dam.

Address (Visitor Center): Route 210, Fort Smith, MT 59035
Phone: 307.548.5406 / 406.666.2412
Website: https://www.nps.gov/bica/index.htm

LITTLE BIGHORN BATTLEFIELD NATIONAL MONUMENT & RENO-BENTEEN BATTLEFIELD

These monuments commemorate the Sioux/Cheyenne victory over the Seventh Cavalry. The Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument features museum exhibits, an interpretive center and ranger-led programs.

Directions: Interstate I-90, Crow Agency Exit 510 at Jct 212, Battlefield Tour Road 756
Phone: 406.638.3216
Website: https://www.nps.gov/libi/index.htm

CHIEF PLENTY COUPS STATE PARK

Chief Plenty Coups State Park is the home and grave site of the well-known Crow Chief, Plenty Coups. His home is a National Historic Landmark and the park also includes a visitor center and large scenic picnic area.