In 1877, the wal'wáama were driven out of the Wallowa Valley, their homeland since time immemorial, and began a heartbreaking and difficult departure. Over the next 1170 miles they joined with other Nez Perce bands, crossed extremely rugged mountain terrain, and fought the military while trying to reach the safety of Canada. Many died, some reached Canada, and others sought refuge in the Blue Mountians or were imprisoned in Oklahoma. Today, their descendants live on the Nez Perce, Colville, and Umatilla reservations, as well as in Canada and in communities throughout North America, and they continue to honor this sacred land of memories and heritage.