Tunnachemootoolt (Broken Arm) Archives - Lewis & Clark Research Database https://lewisandclarkresearch.org/key-figure/tunnachemootoolt-broken-arm/ A digital archive of treaties, documents, artwork, and 360° trail panoramas from the Corps of Discovery Tue, 10 Feb 2026 17:42:25 +0000 en-US hourly 1 Tunnachemootoolt (Broken Arm) https://lewisandclarkresearch.org/research/tunnachemootoolt-broken-arm/ Tue, 10 Feb 2026 17:42:25 +0000 https://research.lewisandclarktrust.org/research/tunnachemootoolt-broken-arm/ The great head chief of the Kamiah-area Nez Perce. He hosted a major council in May 1806 where the captains discussed peace proposals. His village was the expedition's base camp while they waited for snow to clear from the Bitterroot passes.

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]]> Tunnachemootoolt, known to the expedition as “Broken Arm,” was a principal chief of the Nez Perce who hosted the Corps of Discovery during their extended stay in the Clearwater region in May-June 1806.

Broken Arm was a significant leader whose support was crucial during the expedition’s month-long wait for mountain snows to melt before recrossing the Bitterroots. He provided food, lodging, and counsel, and participated in diplomatic councils where the captains outlined American intentions in the region.

The expedition’s extended stay with the Nez Perce — longer than with any other people except the Mandan — produced detailed ethnographic observations about Nez Perce culture, governance, and daily life that remain valuable to historians and tribal members today.

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