Lewis & Clark came through the land that would eventually become Bismarck-Mandan nearly 200 years ago. They were sent on a military mission by President Thomas Jefferson to find the "Northwest Passage." Although they failed in that task, they succeeded in many other ways, ways that even now, seem unimaginable.
They were sent across over half of the continent, not knowing what to expect, not knowing whom they would find. This is where they stayed during the winter of 1804-05. This is where they made their most helpful and valuable contact. If it weren't for Sakakawea and her baby, Jean Baptiste, other tribes they met along the way would have thought they were a war party and surely have defeated them. You see, no war party would travel with a woman and child. This was the relationship that would solidify their survival. This was the bond that was most significant to the entire expedition. It's because of the fact that their journey brought them through North Dakota, specifically our community, that we commemorate and ultimately re-trace their steps. Please join us in doing so. |
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