La Push, 14 miles from Forks, is home to the Quileute Tribe. Tribal members built cedar canoes that ranged in size from two-man to ocean-going freight vessels capable of carrying three tons.
They ranked second only to the Makah as whalers, and first among all the tribes as sealers. Special woolly-haired dogs were bred, and their hair spun into prized blankets.
Today, La Push has oceanfront resorts, a seafood company, fish hatchery, and a revamped marina. The Quileute Tribe has recreated its traditional skills and crafts, which are taught at school along with the unique language.
The popular Quileute Days takes place in July in La Push. The tribal celebration of cultural heritage and modern lifestyle includes a fireworks display, a traditional salmon bake, dancing and songs, a softball tournament, and other field sports, a slo-pitch tournament, a horse show tournament, arts and craft display and food concessions. |