In a move to eliminate offensive names and promote inclusivity, the National Park Service has announced the renaming of Mount Doane in Yellowstone National Park to First Peoples Mountain. This decision comes after the US Board on Geographic Names voted unanimously in favor of the change.
Formerly named after explorer Gustavus Doane, the Wyoming mountain reaches a height of 10,551 feet and is located to the east of Yellowstone Lake. However, the history behind its previous name includes associations with a problematic past.
Gustavus Doane, born in Illinois in 1840, had a contentious legacy. While he made contributions as an army officer, his involvement in the massacre of Native Americans tarnished his reputation. Doane led an attack on a band of Piegan Blackfeet in 1870, resulting in the deaths of at least 173 American Indians, including women, children, and the elderly.
The National Park Service expressed their concerns about Doane’s actions, explaining that he “wrote fondly about this attack and bragged about it for the rest of his life.” It became apparent that a change was necessary to address the offensive nature of the mountain’s name.
Yellowstone National Park engaged in a consultation process with 27 associated Tribes, reaching out to ensure their perspectives were considered. The park received no opposition or concerns regarding the name change from any of the Tribes involved.
The renaming of Mount Doane to First Peoples Mountain signifies a significant step towards recognizing and honoring the indigenous communities connected to the land. By removing derogatory or inappropriate names, Yellowstone National Park aims to foster a more inclusive environment for all visitors.
The National Park Service plans to update The Domestic Names Geographic Names Information System (GNIS) to reflect this change in the coming days. Additionally, they have expressed a willingness to consider further modifications to address any remaining offensive names in the park.
This decision serves as a reminder of the importance of acknowledging the complex histories and ensuring that names and monuments reflect shared values of respect, understanding, and inclusivity. It signifies a commitment to moving forward in a way that celebrates and uplifts the diverse stories and cultures that shape our national parks.
Yellowstone National Park stands as a testament to the wonders of nature and the rich heritage that exists within its boundaries. By embracing change and addressing past wrongs, we can create a park that truly belongs to everyone, where visitors of all backgrounds feel welcome and valued.
So let us celebrate this momentous renaming, as Mount Doane transitions into First Peoples Mountain, symbolizing a new chapter of unity, recognition, and respect within Yellowstone National Park.
