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 Enter Washington

Historical marker location:

1676 Elm Street, Clarkston, Washington

( Marker is on Inland Empire Highway / Bridge Street (U.S. 12) ¼ mile east of Elm Street, 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.

Washington was named after the first President of the United States, George Washington, and was admitted as the 42nd state on November 11, 1889.

About Asotin County

Asotin County is located in the southeast corner of the state of Washington, bordering Idaho. Its history dates back to prehistoric times when indigenous tribes, including the Nez Perce and Palouse, inhabited the area. These tribes relied on the abundant natural resources found in the regions, such as fish from the Snake and Clearwater rivers and game from the surrounding forests and grasslands.

European exploration of the area began in the early 19th century with fur trappers and traders. In the 1850s, settlers started arriving, attracted by the opportunities provided by mining in the nearby Nez Perce Reservation. The first permanent settlement, Asotin City, was established in 1860. The city served as a transportation hub for miners and settlers making their way into central Idaho.

Asotin County was officially created in 1883, named after a Nez Perce word meaning "eel creek" due to the plentiful eels found in the area's waterways. The region continued to grow as settlers cultivated the fertile land for agriculture and established businesses to support the expanding community.

The county faced challenges in the early 20th century, including devastating fires and economic downturns. However, it persevered and developed into a thriving community thanks to the construction of dams and irrigation systems, which brought stability to the agriculture industry. Today, Asotin County is known for its beautiful landscapes, outdoor recreational opportunities, and a strong sense of community.

Asotin County Timeline

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Asotin County, Washington.

1805 - The Lewis and Clark Expedition explores the area that would later become Asotin County.
1810s - Fur traders establish trading posts in the region, interacting with local Native American tribes.
1861 - Asotin County is created by the Washington Territorial Legislature.
1881 - The city of Asotin is incorporated.
1893 - Clarkston, located across the Snake River from Asotin, is incorporated.
1930 - The first steel bridge connecting Asotin and Clarkston is completed.
1958 - The Lower Granite Dam is completed on the Snake River, providing electricity and flood control to the area.
2000 - The Asotin County Courthouse, built in 1898, is added to the National Register of Historic Places.