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 Campsite

Historical marker location:

Omaha, Nebraska

( Marker can be reached from Dodge Park Road, 0.6 miles east of John J. Pershing Dr..)

July 27, 1804

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.

Nebraska - a place where the past meets the present, and the dreams of tomorrow take shape.

About Douglas County

Douglas County, Nebraska, located in the Midwestern United States, has a rich history dating back thousands of years. The region was initially populated by Native American tribes, including the Omaha, Pawnee, and Otoe peoples, who farmed the land and established settlements along the Missouri River. European explorers, such as French trader Pierre Laclède and Spanish explorer Francisco Vazquez de Coronado, visited the area in the 18th century.

The first permanent European settlement in the area was established in 1854 by a group of Mormons who created the town of Omaha. The town quickly grew as a result of the California Gold Rush, as many pioneers passed through the region on their way westward. In 1854, Douglas County was officially organized and named after Stephen A. Douglas, a prominent U.S. senator.

The late 19th and early 20th centuries saw significant development and growth in Douglas County. Railroads played a major role in the county's expansion, linking Omaha to other parts of the country and facilitating trade and commerce. In 1898, the Trans-Mississippi Exposition was held in Omaha, attracting millions of visitors and showcasing the region's progress.

Despite its growth and prosperity, Douglas County also faced challenges. In the early 20th century, racial tensions emerged, leading to racial violence and segregation. Additionally, the Great Depression of the 1930s had a significant impact on the county, prompting the government to implement various New Deal programs to provide relief and stimulate economic recovery.

Today, Douglas County continues to be a vibrant and diverse community, serving as the economic and cultural center of Nebraska. With its rich history and commitment to progress, the county remains an important part of the region's heritage.

Douglas County Timeline

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Douglas County, Nebraska.

1854: Douglas County, NE is established as a county within the Nebraska Territory.
1867: Nebraska becomes a state, and Douglas County remains a county within the state.
1874: The city of Omaha, located in Douglas County, becomes the state's capital.
1917: The city of Omaha annexes South Omaha, expanding the city's boundaries.
1930s: The Great Depression impacts Douglas County, leading to economic challenges for the area.
1960s: Civil rights movements take place, including protests and demonstrations, within Douglas County.
1975: The Omaha Public School District implements court-ordered desegregation after a landmark Supreme Court case.
2007: The Omaha Performing Arts center, commonly known as the Holland Performing Arts Center, opens in downtown Omaha.
2016: The University of Nebraska Medical Center in Douglas County becomes a designated Ebola treatment center.