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 Campsite

Historical marker location:

Weston, Missouri

( Marker is on Main Street, on the left when traveling south.)

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.

Audiobooks about the history of Missouri.

Mark Twain, one of America's most beloved authors, was born in Florida, Missouri, in 1835. He later moved to Hannibal, Missouri, where he set many of his famous stories, including "The Adventures of Tom Sawyer" and "The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn".

About Platte County

Platte County, Missouri has a rich and diverse history that dates back to the early 19th century. The area was inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Kansas, Osage, and Missouri Indians, before European settlers arrived. Trading became an important activity along the Missouri River, which runs through the county, and in 1838, Parkville was established as one of the first settlements in the area.

During the mid-1800s, Platte County experienced significant growth due to the California Gold Rush and the establishment of the Platte Purchase. This brought a large number of settlers and migrants passing through the area on their way west. Platte County became an important hub for trading and transportation, with steamboats serving as a vital means of transport on the Missouri River.

The county played a significant role in the American Civil War. Due to its strategic location, both Union and Confederate armies frequently passed through Platte County, leading to numerous battles and skirmishes. Confederate General Sterling Price's failed raid into Missouri in 1864 involved significant military action in the county. The end of the war brought an end to this period of conflict and allowed for the county's recovery and growth.

In the 20th century, Platte County saw further development as it became a part of the greater Kansas City metropolitan area. The Kansas City International Airport, which opened in 1972, is located in Platte County and has played a significant role in the county's economy and growth. Today, Platte County continues to thrive as a suburban area offering a high quality of life with its proximity to Kansas City and its rural charm.

Platte County Timeline

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Platte County, Missouri.

1830: Platte County is established as one of the original 14 counties of Missouri
1839: The county seat is established in Weston
1855: The Missouri River flood devastates the county, causing significant damage
1861: Platte County remains divided during the American Civil War
1881: The Kansas City and St. Joseph Railway is completed, boosting transportation and trade
1896: The first automobile is introduced in Platte County, signaling the arrival of modern transportation
1943: The Kansas City Ordnance Plant is built in the southern part of the county, contributing to the war effort during World War II
1960: Kansas City International Airport opens in Platte County, becoming a major transportation hub
1993: Historic Weston is designated as a National Historic Landmark
2000: Platte County's population surpasses 73,000, reflecting rapid growth and development