Beginning in April, public television  viewers will have the opportunity to hear and see one of the most cherished  stories of American history from a different perspective—the Blackfeet.  While exploring the only deadly clash between Native Americans and the Lewis and Clark Expedition, the PBS presentation of A Blackfeet Encounter  uncovers the rich Blackfeet history, heritage and culture. Shot at important Blackfeet historic sites in Montana, the story is told mainly through the eyes of Native American historians, cultural experts, tribal elders and educators.           

A stunning vista explodes upon the screen from the very first frame. A single, authentic voice begins the narration – in the Blackfeet language. An historical account of an actual event that poised to change Blackfeet life irrevocably, is used as a jumping off point to explore the effects of the arrival of Lewis and Clark on all First Nations societies along the way, and how their cultures have survived to this day.           

Blending rich scenery, expert First Nations testimony, rich narration and a compelling sound track, the film reveals the extraordinary world and culture of the Blackfeet.  Beautiful historical paintings by Charles Russell, George Catlin and others, mixed with intriguing historical photographs from the Edward S. Curtis collection illustrate the story.           

The documentary traces the tribe’s history beginning with the oral tradition of Blackfeet Creation, explores the encounter with Meriwether Lewis during the Lewis and Clark Expedition, chronicles their experience after the Expedition, and ends with a revealing look at Montana’s Blackfeet Indian Reservation and the people who live there today.      

Distributed by American Public Television, A Blackfeet Encounter  is the brain child of Blackfeet cultural leader,  Curly Bear Wagner, who envisions a series of Native American documentaries about the First Nations peoples all along the Lewis and Clark trail.  It is written, produced and directed by Dennis Neary,  and is his second documentary on a Native American theme.  

 A Blackfeet Encounter  is presented by Native American Public Telecommunications (NAPT), one of five national consortia chartered by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting to provide minority programming to the public broadcasting system. Information is available on the web at  www.nativetelecom.org.  Check local listings for broadcast dates and times.