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

The Lewis and Clark Expedition Across Missouri

Historical marker location:

21932 Kingsman Dr, Ste. Genevieve, Missouri

( Marker is on Matthews Drive west of Little Rock 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 infamous outlaw Jesse James was born in Clay County, Missouri, in 1847. He later became known for his bank and train robberies and was killed by a member of his own gang in 1882.

About Ste. Genevieve County

Ste. Genevieve County, located in southeastern Missouri, has a rich and diverse history dating back centuries. The area was initially inhabited by Native American tribes, particularly the Mississippian culture, who left behind evidence of their presence in the form of ancient mounds and artifacts. European exploration of the region began in the late 17th century, with French settlers being the first to establish a permanent presence.

In the early 18th century, French Canadian colonists arrived in the area and founded the settlement of Ste. Genevieve, which would later become the county seat and the oldest permanent European settlement in Missouri. The town played a significant role in the fur trade and served as a trading center for the surrounding frontier. In 1763, following the conclusion of the French and Indian War, the region was ceded to Spain, who controlled it until 1800 when it was transferred back to France as part of the Louisiana Purchase.

After the United States acquired the region in 1803, Ste. Genevieve County became part of the new Missouri Territory and witnessed an influx of American settlers. The county played a vital role in the development of Missouri as a state, with many of its early inhabitants becoming prominent figures in state and local politics. By the mid-19th century, the county's economy had diversified, with agriculture, particularly tobacco farming, becoming a major industry. The construction of railroads in the late 19th century further spurred growth and industry in the county.

In the 20th century, Ste. Genevieve County experienced a shift towards a more modern economy, with agriculture remaining important but being supplemented by manufacturing and tourism. Today, the county is known for its historic charm and preservation efforts, with many buildings from the early settlement period still standing. Ste. Genevieve County continues to be a place where history, nature, and industry converge, offering visitors and residents a glimpse into Missouri's past while embracing the opportunities of the present.

Ste. Genevieve County Timeline

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

1722 - French settlers establish a trading post in the Ste. Genevieve area
1763 - Ste. Genevieve becomes part of the Spanish territory after the Treaty of Paris
1785 - Ste. Genevieve is recognized as a commune by the Spanish authorities
1804 - Ste. Genevieve becomes part of the United States through the Louisiana Purchase
1812 - Ste. Genevieve County is established
1850 - The arrival of the railroad brings economic growth to Ste. Genevieve
1943 - The U.S. Army establishes Camp Crowder in Ste. Genevieve County during World War II
2009 - Ste. Genevieve County celebrates its 200th anniversary