Diary of Lewis & Clark

May 21, 1804

Lewis- The expedition began today. I was chosen

to lead this expedition because of my knowledge of the west and my experience as an army officer. Clark is my co-captain. There are 33 other men besides Clark and I. I wish us luck.

August 20, 1804

Clark- Today we experienced our first casualty. It

was Sergeant Charles Floyd. He died of appendicitis. He was the first solider to die west of the Mississippi River. He was a good man. His death saddens me greatly.

September 15, 1804

Lewis- We met with the Teton Sioux. This

encounter was not as peaceful as our first one. The chief demanded a boat for us to pass. When we denied to give it to them the prepared to fight. Then we both retreated. I hope we do not have a run in with them again.

December 16,1804

Clark- We stopped at the Mandan tribe for winter.

This is the third day of construction of Fort Mandan. The Indian tribe have treated us like family. They are so respectable. I hope our stay here will be a long pleasant one.

April 3, 1805

Lewis- Today Clark and I wrote our first report to

president Jefferson. It contained 108 different plant species and 68 mineral types. We also sent a few men and maps. We were so excited to send our letter.

May 12, 1805

Clark- Today we came to a fork in the river. We

had to divide our team to find the true Missouri River. We will continue to search for the Northwest Passage. You go right I’ll go left.

June 2, 1805

Lewis- Today we found the other half of our team.

The one that went on the other side of the fork in the Missouri river. We did not find the Northwest Passage. It was very upsetting.

March 23, 1806

Clark- Today we left Fort Clatsop. We are on our

way home. I cant wait to get to St. Louis and tell everyone about our adventures in the west. I am so excited to see my family and friends again.

September 23, 1806

Lewis- Today we arrived in St. Louis. I am finally

home again. My family and friends were waiting on me to return. I missed them dearly.