Pompey's Pillar. Near Billings Montana
At Pompey's Pillar, this rock in the background is where Lewis Clark's signature stands, and is the only actual evidence of his trip.
Too bad we couldn't see it because the viewing had to be done after climbing 200 steps and trying to see it thru the mirror they had placed there!
Urk!
The Corp had 50 horses to help them in their journey, but they all had been stolen.
They learned how to construct these bullboats (7 feet in diameter, and constructed out of buffalo hides and willow branches)
After being stranded, a small contingent managed to travel several hundred miles up the Yellowstone River to meet up with Clark.
Back to our campground in Medora, North Dakota
a quaint little town near the Roosevelt National Park.
( We have managed to stay in many campgrounds near the trains!)
The Lewis and Clark interpretive center, Washburn North Dakota
(We drove a lot of miles to see this gun!)
Lou had to see to see the air gun that was purported to be the most important gun in American History.
It held 22 bullets, was fired to show the natives the power that the Corp had.
It is said that this gun did more to advance relations with the Indians ( as many as 50 different tribes), yet never killed one person.
We were able to see the (recreated) Fort Mandan where they built and stayed for the winter. The Mandan tribe was very helpful in establishing diplomatic relations and help in guiding the party west.
Lewis and Clark appear to have first met Sacagawea at Fort Mandan.
Each room had a fireplace - pretty necessary in the winter weather
of 40 degrees below zero.
The lofts were probably the 'best room' when the snow is high and the temperatures are so low.
5 months of living in small quarters led to the ordinary pleasures and pastimes -
music and card games.
The Captains quarters - Sextants and map making.
and a bit of libation.
Lou is enjoying the Blunderbuss
It is a heavy large caliber cross between a shotgun and small canon.
They had to carry all supplies and equipment to fix everything they would need on this 2 year journey.
The blacksmiths had to be able to fix all metal items and all guns with their 16,000 pounds of gear!
Our guide asked what we thought this item was------
answer: Battle Axe
(no not her!!)
It was a desirable item of trade, and has been found as far west as Idaho.
