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

Route of Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail

Historical marker location:

51891 SW Old Portland Road, Scappoose, Oregon

( Marker is at the intersection of Columbia River Highway (U.S. 30) and SW Old Portland Road, on the left when traveling north on Columbia River Highway.)

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.

Crater Lake, located in southern Oregon, is the deepest lake in the United States and one of the deepest in the world. It was formed over 7,000 years ago when Mount Mazama erupted and collapsed, creating a caldera that filled with water.

About Columbia County

Columbia County, Oregon has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. Native American tribes, including the Chinook and Clatskanie tribes, inhabited the region for centuries before European settlement. In the early 19th century, explorers and fur traders, such as Lewis and Clark, ventured into the area, marking the beginning of the region's interaction with European settlers.

In the mid-19th century, Columbia County experienced a significant influx of settlers, drawn by the prospects of fertile land and natural resources. The establishment of the Oregon Trail and the completion of the Columbia River Highway in the late 1800s further encouraged the growth of Columbia County. The county went through several name changes before settling on its current name in 1854, reflecting its position along the Columbia River.

The late 19th century saw the rise of industries such as logging, fishing, and coal mining. The timber industry, in particular, played a crucial role in shaping the county's economy and identity. The Oregon-American Lumber Company, headquartered in Rainier, became one of the largest lumber producers in the world at the time.

With the decline of the timber industry in the latter half of the 20th century, Columbia County has sought to diversify its economy. Today, the county boasts a mix of industries, including manufacturing, agriculture, and tourism. The natural beauty of the region, with its lush forests, rivers, and scenic views, continues to attract visitors and residents alike. Columbia County's rich history is celebrated through various museums, historical sites, and events that highlight the region's unique heritage.

Columbia County Timeline

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

1805 - Columbia County is explored by the Lewis and Clark expedition.
1825 - The first permanent settlement is established in the present-day Columbia County.
1854 - Columbia County is officially established by the Oregon Territorial Legislature.
1880 - The population of Columbia County reaches over 5,000 people.
1920 - The Columbia River Highway is completed, improving transportation in the county.
1965 - The St Helens School District is formed.
1981 - Columbia County Historical Society is established to preserve the county's history.
1996 - The county seat is moved from Hillsboro to St Helens.
2007 - The Scappoose Bay Marine Park is opened, providing recreational opportunities for residents.