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 in Illinois

Historical marker location:

15 IL-3, Ware, Illinois

( Marker is on Illinois Route 3 south of Illinois Route 146, on the right when traveling south.)

Marker installed: 2003

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.

Illinois is the birthplace of several famous people, including former U.S. President Ronald Reagan, Nobel Prize-winning physicist Enrico Fermi, and writer Ernest Hemingway.

About Union County

Union County, Illinois has a rich and diverse history that dates back to the early 19th century. The area was originally home to Native American tribes, including the Shawnee and Illini, who were later displaced by European settlers. The region played a significant role in the westward expansion of the United States and the development of the state of Illinois.

The first permanent European settlement in what is now Union County was established in the early 1800s. The area quickly grew in population, attracting settlers from a variety of backgrounds. The county was officially established as a separate administrative unit in 1818, the same year that Illinois was admitted to the Union as the 21st state.

Union County played a pivotal role in the American Civil War, with both Union and Confederate sympathizers residing within its borders. The county was heavily influenced by the conflict, and experienced several skirmishes and military engagements. Notably, the town of Jonesboro in Union County was the site of the third Illinois senatorial debate between Abraham Lincoln and Stephen Douglas in 1858.

Throughout its history, Union County has been shaped by its agricultural heritage, with many residents engaged in farming and related industries. The county's fertile soil and favorable climate have made agriculture a prominent economic activity, particularly in the production of corn and soybeans. In recent years, there has also been a growing interest in agritourism, with visitors drawn to farms and wineries in the area.

Today, Union County continues to be a vibrant community, offering a mix of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and cultural attractions. It remains an important part of Illinois' agricultural landscape, while also embracing tourism and preserving its unique history.

Union County Timeline

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Union County, Illinois.

1818: Union County is established as one of the three original counties of Illinois.
1839: Jonesboro becomes the county seat of Union County.
1858: The Lincoln-Douglas Debates are held in Jonesboro, attracting national attention.
1861-1865: Union County actively participates in the American Civil War.
1875: General John A. Logan, a Union Army officer, is elected from Union County to the United States Congress.
1930s: The Great Depression leads to economic hardships in Union County.
1960s: The Shawnee National Forest is established, providing recreational opportunities for locals and visitors.
1998: The Mississippi River floods, causing significant damage to Union County.
Present: Union County continues to be a rural area with a strong agricultural and tourism industry.