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 Campsite

Historical marker location:

Fort Calhoun, Nebraska

( Marker can be reached from Madison St, 0.6 miles east of U.S. 75.)

July 30 - August 2, 1804

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 name "Nebraska" is derived from an Oto Indian word meaning "flat water."

About Washington County

Washington County, NE has a rich and diverse history that dates back to the early 1800s. Its story begins with the arrival of European settlers in the area, primarily consisting of German immigrants looking for fertile land to establish farms and build communities. In 1854, the county was officially organized and named after George Washington, the first President of the United States.

The establishment of Washington County was closely tied to the growth of agriculture in the region. These hardworking settlers transformed the prairie landscape into productive farmland, cultivating crops such as corn, wheat, and oats. The introduction of the railroad in the late 1800s further stimulated economic development, allowing for the transportation of goods and attracting additional settlers to the county.

Over the years, Washington County experienced various challenges and triumphs. In the late 19th century, floods caused by the nearby Missouri River posed significant threats to the communities along its banks. However, the resilience of the residents and efforts to construct levees and flood control measures helped mitigate the damage caused by these natural disasters.

In the 20th century, Washington County continued to evolve with the changing times. The construction of highways and bridges enhanced connectivity within the county and facilitated economic growth. The county remains an agricultural stronghold, with many farm families passing down their traditions and skills from generation to generation. Additionally, the county has embraced modern advancements, including technology and manufacturing, contributing to its overall prosperity.

Today, Washington County thrives as a vibrant and close-knit community, with a strong emphasis on preserving its cultural heritage and promoting economic growth. The county celebrates its history through various events, festivals, and local museums, providing residents and visitors alike with a deeper understanding of its past and the important role it plays in Nebraska history.

Washington County Timeline

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

1854 - Washington County, NE was officially organized as a county.
1858 - The county seat, Blair, was established.
1864 - The first newspaper in the county, the Washington County Sentinel, was published.
1871 - The Omaha and Northwestern Railroad was completed, connecting Blair to Omaha.
1877 - The First National Bank of Blair was established, becoming the first bank in the county.
1902 - A devastating tornado swept through Blair, causing extensive damage.
1919 - The Washington County Historical Association was formed to preserve the county's history.
1933 - The Blair Municipal Pool, one of the first public swimming pools in the state, was opened.
1969 - Dana College, a private liberal arts college, was founded in Blair.
2000 - The Blair Bridge, a historic truss bridge, was added to the National Register of Historic Places.
2010 - The population of Washington County reached over 20,000 residents.