Lewis & Clark's Missouri
The keelboat heads west

by Jeff Joiner

Despite torrential rainstorms and high water, the Discovery Expedition of St. Charles is making its way up the Missouri River this summer in commemoration of the 200th anniversary of the Lewis and Clark expedition, which explored the western United States from 1803 to 1806 by following the river from its confluence with the Mississippi all the way to the Rocky Mountains.

Shown at right, the Discovery Expedition replica keelboat and one of two pirogues makes their way up the Missouri as they approach Washington, on May 24. The boats, manned by volunteers in period costume, began the bicentennial journey up the river on May 14 and will continue on to Fort Mandan in North Dakota, arriving in November. The original Corps of Discovery continued west after reaching the mountains, eventually arriving at the Pacific Ocean before returning to St. Louis.

There are still plenty of opportunities this summer to see the keelboat and pirogues as well as attend Lewis and Clark Bicentennial events in Missouri. For a schedule of the journey of the Discovery Expedition keelboat and pirogues visit the Web site www.lewisandclark.net.

For a schedule of remaining Missouri events commemorating Lewis and Clark visit www.lewisandclarkmo.com. Information is also available by contacting the Missouri Lewis and Clark Bicentennial Commission, P.O. Box 176, Jefferson City, MO 65102; (573) 522-9019.