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 Expedition

Historical marker location:

Pomeroy, Washington

( Marker is on U.S. 12 at milepost 414 near Sweeney Gulch Road, on the right when traveling east.)

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 Washington State Capitol Building in Olympia was designed by architects from the New York firm of York and Sawyer, who also designed the Michigan State Capitol and the New York State Education Building.

About Garfield County

Garfield County, located in the southeastern part of the state of Washington, has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, such as the Palouse, who relied on the land for hunting, gathering, and farming. European exploration in the 18th and 19th centuries brought trappers and fur traders to the region.

In the late 19th century, the discovery of gold and silver in the area led to an influx of miners and settlers. The town of Pomeroy, founded in 1878, became the county seat and the economic hub of the region. The mining industry brought prosperity and growth to Garfield County. However, as the mines became depleted, the population declined, and the economy shifted toward agriculture.

Agriculture has been a primary industry in Garfield County since the early 20th century. The fertile soil and favorable climate proved ideal for producing wheat, barley, and other crops. Farmers adopted modern farming techniques and machinery, leading to increased productivity. The county's agricultural heritage is still evident today, with vast fields stretching across the landscape.

In recent years, Garfield County has faced challenges due to a declining population and changes in the agricultural industry. Efforts have been made to diversify the local economy and attract new businesses. The county continues to be a close-knit community, with residents working together to preserve their history and promote the county's unique heritage. Garfield County's past and present are intertwined, reflecting the resilience and adaptability of its people.

Garfield County Timeline

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Garfield County, Washington.

1879 - Garfield County is established on November 29, named after President James A. Garfield.
1881 - Pomeroy becomes the county seat.
1900 - The population of Garfield County reaches its peak at 7,080.
1934 - The Great Depression causes significant economic hardship in the county.
1956 - The Central Ferry Bridge is completed, connecting Garfield County to Whitman County.
1990 - The population of Garfield County declines to 2,392.
1998 - The Guardian of the Gulch statue is erected in Pomeroy to commemorate the county's mining history.
2002 - The Garfield County Courthouse is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.