In mid-November 1805 the Lewis and Clark Expedition reached the Pacific Ocean via the Clearwater, Snake, and Columbia Rivers. After exploring the area, the Expedition members voted to cross to the south side of the Columbia where they built Fort Clatsop, named for the local Indian tribe. They remained at the Fort until March 1806. During that winter they killed more than 130 elk. Of the 106 days they spent at the Fort, it rained every day but 12.
In addition to other preparations for their return trip in the spring, Captains Lewis and Clark spent hours updating copious notes of their journey, including information about plants, fish, and wildlife, the flora and fauna of the American West. The maps they drew of the areas they covered were incredibly accurate, within 40 miles of the 4000 miles they covered. They maintained a strict military routine throughout the winter. In addition to their military duties, the soldiers spent much time servicing their weapons, preparing elkhide clothing for the return trip, and making elk tallow candles.
Our pictures show the exterior of Fort Clatsop, the interior courtyard, and the interior of the Captains' quarters.
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