How did YORK play an important role in the Lewis and Clark Expedition?

As detailed in The Journals of Lewis and Clark, during the two years of the Corps of Discovery expedition, York handled firearms, killed game and helped to navigate trails and waterways. In early December 1804, York was one of 15 men on a dangerous buffalo hunt to replenish their supply.

Who was in charge of the Lewis and Clark Expedition?

That tale began long before the first step of the journey took place and involved a lengthy period of detailed preparation by the officer in charge, Captain Meriwether Lewis, with the personal support and assistance of the President of the United States, Thomas Jefferson.

Where did Lewis and Clark spend their first winter?

These phases included initial preparatory efforts in Virginia, Pennsylvania, and Kentucky; a “shakedown” period at an army post in the Illinois Territory during the first winter; movement west to the Pacific in the early spring; and finally the return trip after spending the winter on the Pacific coast.

Why was Pittsburgh important to Lewis and Clark?

The city of Pittsburgh would figure prominently in the preparations for the expedition by virtue of the fact that it was a nationally known shipbuilding port located on the Ohio River. Procuring suitable transportation was especially critical since the president had specifically instructed Lewis to find a water route to the Pacific.

Who was asked to lead the expedition to the Pacific?

In 1783 he had asked Brigadier General George Rogers Clark to lead an expedition to the Pacific, but Clark refused. Ten years later, Jefferson helped raise money for a westward expedition by botanist Andre Michaux, which was then canceled.

Where did Lewis and Clark start their journey?

Lewis and Clark’s Journey Begins. May 14, 1804. The Corps of Discovery embarks from Camp Dubois outside of St. Louis, Missouri, in a 55-foot keelboat to begin the westward journey up the Missouri

What did Jefferson want to do with Lewis and Clark?

For at least twenty years before he launched Lewis and Clark across two thousand miles into immortality, Jefferson had planned for a transcontinental expedition starting up the Missouri River.

When did Lewis and Clark believe they would find the Shoshone?

By August, 1805, Lewis and Clark believe the fate of the expedition hangs on finding the Shoshone and buying horses from them. It’s the only way the Corps can hope to cross the Rocky Mountains before winter. While Sacagawea doesn’t “guide” the expedition, her childhood memories provide valuable clues that they are on the right path.

Who was president when Lewis and Clark went to the Pacific?

President Thomas Jefferson had long possessed a great interest, for both practical and scientific reasons, in exploring the American west. In 1783 he had asked Brigadier General George Rogers Clark to lead an expedition to the Pacific, but Clark refused.