Discovering the Vast Unknown

THOMAS JEFFERSON, the 3rd President of the United States, called upon Meriwether Lewis to lead the first official government expedition "to explore the vast unknown lands west of the Mississippi River." It was to be a journey across the continent to the Pacific Ocean.  The President believed that such an undertaking would be of major importance for commercial opportunities.

Lewis, a Captain in the U.S. Army, accepted the challenge - and with Jefferson's approval - chose William Clark to be co-commander of the expedition.

Further, Lewis requested of the President that Clark be given the rank of Captain.

The departure point of the expedition was from Camp River Dubois in Illinois on January 18, 1803. Through many hardships and struggles, the expedition was a success that changed the history of the nation.

Today, the Lewis and Clark State Historical Site stands in honor of these commanders and crew members at the place of their departure - and their return. A 14,000 square-foot facility was opened in 2002.

The museum, and grounds including a reconstruction of the winter camp area, is located just off of Highway 3 (at 1 Lewis and Clark Trail) near Hartford in eastern Illinois. The Site is only a short drive from the greater St. Louis metropolitan area. Hours for welcoming visitors are 9 to 5 Wednesdays through Sundays. Additional information is available by calling 618-251-5811.

This particular historical site was a complete surprise to me! Last summer I was out with my wife and son on a day-trip to travel the Illinois "river road" close to Granite City, Alton, and Grafton. All of a sudden we came upon a sign indicating a Lewis and Clark Site. We quickly decided to take a look. It turned out to be an unexpected gem - and, a tremendous leisure discovery.

My hunch is that you would think so too!