N3827

Lewis & Clark Expedition - Bicentennial

Fred's Anecdotal Note

William Clark

On June 19, 1803, Meriwether Lewis wrote to Williarn Clark to ask him to join him on a grand adventure. In retrospect, that letter also led to solidify one of the most famous and genuine friendships of all time. ln it Lewis wrote that he wanted Clark to help him "engage some good hunters, stout, healthy, unmarried men accustomed to the woods...my plan is to descend the Ohio in a keeled boat thence up the Mississippi to the mouth of the Missourie, and up that river...there to prepare canoes of bark or row-hides" and then "if practicable" to proceed to "the Western Ocean." Lewis concluded, "Thus my friend you have a summory view of the plan, the means and obiects ofthis expedition. If therefore there is anything under those circumstances, in this entirprise, which would induce you to participte with me in its fatiegues, its dangers and its honors, believe me there is no man on earth with whom I should feel equal pleasure in sharing them as yourself " Responding Clark wrote Lewis to accept by stating "this is an undertaking fraited with many difeculties, but my friend I do assure you that no man lives with whome I would perfur to undertake Such a Trip as yourself."

When inviting Clark to share command of the expedition, Lewis knew that he would bring essential skills to the endeavor. Clark had a reputation as a firm, fair, and respected commander of enlisted men. His bravery and courage were proven and his word was his bond. In the areas of mapmaking and surveying, Clark was actually superior to Lewis. In short, he was the perfect choice. Their trust in each other was complete. History has forever linked the famous pair of explorers, and the depth of William's friendship with his comrade was literally lifelong,

for when he died in 1838, it was in the St. Louis bedroom of his oldest son - Meriwether Lewis Clark.