07/05/2025
Why Kayce Sells The Yellowstone Dutton Ranch To Chief Rainwater (But Keeps His Family's Home)
Yellowstone's Ending Fulfills 1883's Prophecy
As teased at the end of Yellowstone season 5, episode 13, Kayce approaches Chief Thomas Rainwater with a proposition — he will sell the Yellowstone Dutton Ranch to the chief and his tribe for what it cost when the Dutton's ancestors took it; $1.25 per acre. It's a steal, frankly, and that's the point. Kayce and Beth have to sell the land because they can't afford the inheritance tax, and neither can the members of the Broken Rock Reservation. However, if Chief Rainwater buys it for a small sum, the tax will be based on what he paid for it.
With the tax decrease, Chief Rainwater can afford to purchase the ranch, and he unsurprisingly jumps at the opportunity. While it's sad to let the ranch go (well, not so much for Kayce), the Duttons know that it's in good hands as Chief Rainwater and his people will care for it. The land won't be taken over by wealthy corporations looking to build shopping centers, resorts, etc. Plus, Kayce makes sure that he and his family can keep their home at East Camp as a part of the deal.
Spotted Eagle said, "In seven generations my people will rise up and take it back from you," and that is exactly what happens during the Yellowstone season 5 finale.
With the sale, Yellowstone's story has come full circle. As some may recall, 1883 ended with a prophecy — Spotted Eagle told James Dutton that his people would take back the land one day. Specifically, Spotted Eagle said, "In seven generations my people will rise up and take it back from you," and that is exactly what happens during the Yellowstone season 5 finale.