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

Historical marker location:

Umatilla, Oregon

( Marker is on Devore Road north of 6th Street (U.S. 730), on the left when traveling north.)

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.

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About Umatilla County

Umatilla County, located in northeastern Oregon, has a rich and diverse history that dates back thousands of years. The area was originally inhabited by several Native American tribes, including the Cayuse and Umatilla peoples. These tribes thrived off the land, relying on hunting, fishing, and gathering for their livelihoods.

In the 19th century, European settlers began to arrive in the region. The Oregon Trail, a major wagon route that stretched from Missouri to Oregon, passed through Umatilla County, attracting pioneers seeking a fresh start in the West. This influx of settlers led to conflicts with the Native American tribes, most notably the Cayuse War of 1847-1855.

With the discovery of gold in the nearby Blue Mountains in the 1860s, Umatilla County experienced a boom in population and economic activity. Towns such as Pendleton and Umatilla City sprung up, catering to the needs of gold miners and settlers. Agriculture also became a significant industry, with ranching and wheat farming dominating the landscape.

In the 20th century, Umatilla County continued to evolve. The development of irrigation systems allowed for the expansion of crop cultivation, leading to the growth of orchards and vineyards. The establishment of the Umatilla Army Depot during World War II brought both economic opportunities and military presence to the county. Today, Umatilla County remains an important agricultural hub, known for its wheat, fruit, and wine production, while also embracing its Native American heritage through cultural events and preservation efforts.

Umatilla County Timeline

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

1862 - Umatilla County is established on September 27.
1864 - Pendleton becomes the county seat.
1881 - The Oregon Railroad and Navigation Company's main line reaches Pendleton.
1904 - The Round-Up, a famous rodeo and western event, is first held in Pendleton.
1918 - A deadly influenza pandemic spreads to Umatilla County.
1942 - The Umatilla Indian Reservation is established.
1981 - The Umatilla Chemical Depot, a major Army installation, begins operations.
1994 - The Umatilla River flood causes significant damage in the county.
2000 - Umatilla County's population exceeds 70,000 for the first time.