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 & Clark Bicentennial Survey Disk

Historical marker location:

1050 S Riverside Dr, St. Charles, Missouri

( Marker is at the intersection of South Riverside Drive and Boone's Lick Road, on the right when traveling south on South Riverside Drive.)

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 of Missouri is home to several unique natural landmarks, including the Elephant Rocks State Park, which features giant granite boulders that resemble a herd of elephants, and the Ha Ha Tonka State Park, which has natural bridges, caves, and a castle ruin.

About St. Charles County

St. Charles County, Missouri, has a rich history dating back to the early 18th century. The area was originally inhabited by Indigenous peoples, including the Osage and Mississippian cultures, who left behind evidence of their presence in the form of burial mounds and artifacts. In the late 17th century, French explorers including Louis Jolliet and Jacques Marquette explored the region, and French settlers began to establish trading posts in the area.

In 1769, Lieutenant Governor Louis Blanchette founded a town near the Missouri River, which would later become known as St. Charles. The town grew rapidly as a center of commerce and transportation, serving as the westernmost outpost of the United States in the early 19th century. St. Charles played a significant role in the westward expansion of the United States, as the starting point of the Lewis and Clark Expedition in 1804.

During the 19th century, St. Charles County became an important agricultural region, with farmers cultivating crops such as corn, wheat, and tobacco. The county was also home to many German immigrants who brought their agricultural expertise and established thriving farming communities. The arrival of the railroad in the mid-19th century further boosted the county's economic growth.

In the 20th century, St. Charles County experienced significant suburban development, as many residents moved from the city of St. Louis to the county for a quieter, more suburban lifestyle. This led to a population boom, with residential and commercial areas expanding rapidly. Today, St. Charles County is a thriving area with a mix of urban and rural communities, known for its historical sites, parks, and vibrant economy.

St. Charles County Timeline

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of St. Charles County, Missouri.

1769 - French explorers Jacques-Nicolas Bellin and Louis Hennepin visit the area.
1804 - The Lewis and Clark Expedition passes through St. Charles County.
1809 - St. Charles becomes the first state capital of Missouri.
1811 - A massive earthquake, known as the New Madrid earthquake, hits the region.
1821 - Missouri becomes a state and St. Charles County is established.
1826 - The first bridge across the Missouri River is built in St. Charles.
1835 - The city of St. Louis becomes the new state capital, ending St. Charles' capital status.
1861 - The American Civil War begins and St. Charles County becomes a Union stronghold.
1981 - The Ameristar Casino Resort Spa opens in St. Charles, becoming a popular entertainment destination.
2008 - The National Equestrian Center is established in Lake St. Louis, hosting various horse-related events.