Pocatello honors artist Tal Samson and descendants of Chief Pocatello at City Council meeting

At its April 16 meeting the Pocatello City Council formally recognized local artist Tal Samson and members of Chief Pocatello’s descendants for the donation and display of paintings honoring the chief.

Samson and family members described a multi‑year project that began in the late 2000s and noted the cultural importance of preserving names and oral histories connected with the figures portrayed. Samson said the paintings were commissioned for the city more than a decade ago and that both pieces are now on public display; he offered a list of contributors that family members asked the city to place near the artworks so descendants’ names remain visible.

Several family members spoke about their ancestry, oral tradition and the significance of Chief Pocatello to valley history. Nancy Nacki identified herself as a descendant and recounted family memories connecting her lineage to the chief; Armina Fred and other relatives described elders who helped steward the project and urged the council to protect the cultural record.

Hubia Edwards, a third‑generation Native American flute player, performed a brief musical blessing for the council and attendees. Mayor Mark Dulquist (presenting the recognition) said the city would work with the family on display placement and promotional use, and he offered to temporarily take a painting for restoration work and to return it to public display after enhancements.

The mayor invited a group photograph with the family at the council dais. Speakers emphasized unity, cultural continuity and opportunities for the city to celebrate Indigenous heritage in public spaces.