With Sacagawea’s help, the Shoshone provided the expedition with horses and a Shoshone guide named Old Toby. They continued on in their journey across mountains and rivers and finally, on November 7, Clark wrote in his journal that the Pacific Ocean was in view – even though it was still about 20 miles away.
After sheltering for the winter, the Corps of Discovery offered their winter quarters to a local native chief, and on March 23, 1806, began their journey home. In August, Sacagawea, Charbonneau, and Jean Baptiste returned to the Mandan villages. The remaining members of the Corps of Discovery returned to St. Louis on September 23, 1806, marking the completion of their remarkably successful journey.
A Groundbreaking Expedition
By the end of the expedition, the Corps of Discovery had traveled over 8,000 miles through much of what would become the American Mid and Northwest. Even though they didn’t find a direct water route to the Pacific Ocean, they produced maps and identified at least 120 new animal specimens as well as 200 new botanical samples. Also, the expedition opened the door for peaceful relations with dozens of Native American tribes. In fact, before Lewis and Clark returned, President Jefferson was visited by a delegation of Native American chiefs who had previously met the expeditioners on their travels.
The groundbreaking expedition of Lewis, Clark, and Sacagawea would become one of the defining moments in American history. Their journey had demonstrated to many Americans in the east that the unknown was nothing to fear. In fact, the American West held great potential for settlers to achieve wealth and prosperity. The Corps of Discovery had shown that the American West was filled with interesting people, animals, and plants, full of bountiful opportunity, and covered in breathtaking beauty.
Reflection
Imagine that you are applying for a job as an explorer. What are some qualifications that you have?
