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VISITOR INFORMATION | Lewis and Clark |
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Lewis and Clark
Almost two centuries ago, an adventurous band of men led by Meriwether Lewis and William Clark stopped on the banks of the Missouri River in what is now North Dakota, and knew this was the place to set up their winter camp. Mandan Indians lived in the nearby Knife River Indian Villages, a city whose population, at that time, was greater than that of Washington City. The camp was built from scratch and named Fort Mandan, in honor of their Native American hosts.
On November 3, 1804, William Clark made a simple entry in his journal, "We commence building our cabins." These cabins formed part of an enclosure that was christened Fort Mandan. As it turned out, Fort Mandan was occupied longer than any of the three winter posts used by the expedition and it is there that Lewis & Clark met Sakakawea. The refurnished rooms of this full size replica provide a realistic setting for a great learning experience.
Sakakawea became an invaluable asset to these men. Recognized as the ultimate "accidental tourist," Sakakawea and her newborn baby were a sign of peace to all they met. Sakakawea was vital to the expedition because of her ability to serve as an interpreter and in some ways, a guide, along this unexplored trail.
To learn more about Lewis & Clark and their journey, explore these destinations.
Fort Mandan
PO Box 607
Washburn, ND 58577
877-462-8535
www.fortmandan.com
Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center
PO Box 607
Washburn, ND 58577
877-462-8535
www.fortmandan.com
Knife River Indian Villages
PO Box 9
Stanton, ND 58571
701-745-3300
www.nps.gov/knri
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