MO Lewis and Clark

REDISCOVERING LEWIS AND CLARK

The adventures of Lewis and Clark is a tale that continues to amaze not only Americans but many other people from different parts of the world.

The story begins when the late president Thomas Jefferson commissioned his private secretary and soldier Meriwether Lewis to map and study a new water route to the Pacific. Lewis asked his long time friend and army captain William Clark to accompany him on his journey. These two bright and determined frontiersmen also brought with them eleven soldiers, three young men, and a pilot and called their expedition the Corps of Discovery.

From the beginning of the journey up to their return, both Lewis and Clark earned themselves a place in history. Their contribution in mapping the North American continent is surely an indelible legacy not only in geography but also in the field of botany, zoology, and even literature.

These achievements and discoveries are still commemorated in Missouri. Several monuments and memorials are named and erected after these two men as a testament of their remarkable journey.

The Jefferson National Expansion Memorial is one place where you can relive the trails of Lewis and Clark. Situated in St. Louis, Missouri, this historic site stands near the official departure point of the Lewis and Clark expedition.

One of the most popular attractions in this park is the National Memorial Museum of Westward Expansion. Inside this exciting exhibit you will see the biggest and most interesting collection of Lewis and Clark artifacts. Take a trip back in time as you behold for yourself rare items during the days of these two explorers. You will also see a number of relics that will help you learn more about the world of American Indians, as well as the lives of pioneers who placed the American West on the map.

The Lewis and Clark Boathouse and Nature Center is another favorite destination for those who would want to relive the adventures of Lewis and Clark. This charming historic spot is located just beside the Missouri River in St. Charles, Missouri. It features replicas of boats used during the Corps of Discovery mission and a striking monument dedicated to the two astounding explorers.

You can also visit that famous Arrow Rock State Historic Site. This spot was visited by the Discovery Corps on June 9, 1804. According to the accounts of Captain William Clark, this spot is a place where Native Americans gathered quantities of flint; thus, it earned the name Arrow Rock. Today, this area serves as a wonderful museum filled with interesting finds and things preserved since the Expedition of Lewis and Clark.

After the exciting exhibit and museum tours, you can wrap the day by paying homage to the grave of one of the two great explorers. Bellefontaine Cemetery is the final resting place of William Clark. A 35-foot obelisk marks the grave site of this brave frontiersman.

The journey of Lewis and Clark has indeed long ended; their legacy however, still lingers as they are remembered by the country they once served.