What was the Lewis and Clark Expedition?

The Lewis and Clark Expedition, also known as the Corps of Discovery Expedition, was an exploration mission commissioned by President Thomas Jefferson in 1804. Led by Meriwether Lewis and William Clark, the expedition aimed to explore the newly acquired western territory of the United States, known as the Louisiana Purchase.

Why was the Lewis and Clark Expedition significant?

The Lewis and Clark Expedition was significant for several reasons. It provided crucial information about the geography, natural resources, and Native American tribes of the western portion of the United States. It helped to establish American claims to the Pacific Northwest and paved the way for future westward expansion.

Who were Meriwether Lewis and William Clark?

Meriwether Lewis was Thomas Jefferson's personal secretary and an experienced frontiersman. William Clark was an experienced military officer and friend of Lewis. Together, they were appointed by Jefferson to lead the expedition.

How long did the Lewis and Clark Expedition last?

The expedition officially began on May 14, 1804, and ended on September 23, 1806, lasting a total of about two and a half years.

What was the goal of the Lewis and Clark Expedition?

The primary goal of the Lewis and Clark Expedition was to find a practical water route across the western portion of the continent, commonly referred to as the `Northwest Passage.` They also aimed to establish trade with Native American tribes, collect scientific data, and document the natural resources of the region.

What challenges did the expedition face?

The expedition faced numerous challenges, including harsh weather conditions, treacherous terrain, encounters with hostile Native American tribes, and the physical and psychological toll of the journey. They had to navigate rivers, cross mountains, and endure long periods of isolation and hardship.

What were some notable achievements of the expedition?

The expedition achieved several significant milestones, including reaching the Pacific Ocean, establishing friendly relations with many Native American tribes, and collecting valuable scientific data and specimens. They also created detailed maps of the region, opening up opportunities for future settlement and exploration.

What was the role of Sacagawea in the expedition?

Sacagawea, a Shoshone woman, played a vital role as an interpreter, guide, and cultural liaison for the expedition. Her knowledge of the local geography and her ability to communicate with different Native American tribes proved invaluable to Lewis and Clark.

Did the Lewis and Clark Expedition find the Northwest Passage?

No, the expedition did not find a navigable water route connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, which was their initial objective. However, their exploration provided important insights into the geography and resources of the western region of the United States.

What was the legacy of the Lewis and Clark Expedition?

The expedition's legacy is significant. It contributed to the understanding of the vast western territories, stimulated further exploration and settlement of the American West, and provided valuable scientific and cultural insights. The journals and maps created by Lewis and Clark remain valuable historical documents to this day.

Historical Marker

Lewis and Clark

Historical marker location:

44000 U.S Highway 12, Kooskia, Idaho

( Marker can be reached from Highway 12 near Elk Meadows Road, on the left when traveling east.)

Marker installed: 1935

Squamish Glade Camp

A brief timeline of the Lewis and Clark Expedition

1803: President Thomas Jefferson commissions Meriwether Lewis, his personal secretary, to lead an expedition to explore the western territories of the United States and find a practical route to the Pacific Ocean.
1804: Lewis meets up with William Clark, a former army officer and experienced explorer, in Kentucky. They assemble a team of over 30 men and set out on the journey up the Missouri River.
1805: The expedition reaches the Rocky Mountains and crosses the Continental Divide. They build Fort Clatsop on the Pacific coast and spend the winter there, before returning east in the spring of 1806.
1806: Lewis and Clark split up to explore different routes on their way back to St. Louis. They reunite in September and return to civilization, where they are celebrated as national heroes.
1807: The Lewis and Clark Expedition publishes an official account of their journey, called the "History of the Expedition Under the Command of Captains Lewis and Clark," which becomes a bestseller and helps to promote westward expansion.

The Lewis and Clark Expedition was a significant event in the history of the United States, as it helped to expand the country's knowledge of its western territories and paved the way for future settlement and exploration of the region.

The state's first female governor was elected in 1990. Her name was Cecilia M. "Cec" Andrus, and she was the wife of former governor and US Secretary of the Interior, Cecil D. Andrus.

About Idaho County

Idaho County, located in the north-central part of Idaho, has a rich and diverse history that spans thousands of years. The region was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Nez Perce, Shoshone, and Blackfoot. These tribes relied on the abundant natural resources of the area, particularly the rivers and forests, for sustenance and trade.

European exploration of the area began in the early 19th century, with fur trappers and traders from companies like the Hudson's Bay Company venturing into the region. The Lewis and Clark Expedition also crossed through Idaho County in 1805, leaving behind written records of their encounters with the Native American tribes.

Idaho County was officially established in 1864, during the gold rush period in the Pacific Northwest. The discovery of gold in the Elk City area attracted miners from all over the world, leading to the rapid growth of settlements and the development of mining towns. Idaho County became one of the most important gold mining regions in Idaho, with towns like Warren and Florence experiencing boom and bust cycles as the mining industry fluctuated.

In addition to mining, the timber industry also played a significant role in the economic development of Idaho County. The abundant forests provided valuable resources for lumber and wood products, fueling the growth of sawmills and logging operations. Today, Idaho County has a diverse economy that includes agriculture, tourism, and outdoor recreation, all building upon the region's rich history and natural resources.

Idaho County Timeline

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Idaho County, Idaho.

1805: Idaho County was explored by the Lewis and Clark expedition.
1861: Idaho County was established as a county in the Idaho Territory.
1875: The county seat was moved from Florence to Mount Idaho.
1904: The present-day county seat, Grangeville, was established.
2000: The population of Idaho County reached 15,511.