Lewis and Clark

Notes from the Artist:

When I started this project, I knew little about the Corps of Discovery and even less about the two forts they constructed for shelter in the winters of 1804-05 and 1805-06. After visiting reconstructions of both and lots of reading, I am still unsure as to their physical appearance.

What became clear, however, was the incredible self-sufficiency shown by the group of explorers. Thorough planning provided the necessary tools, supplies, and trade goods. Careful recruitment assured the presence of the right person for any tasks that came before the group.

At Fort Mandan, they built the fort not only with logs, but with dimension lumber they formed by splitting. The same carpenters fashioned sleighs which were hitched to horses with harnesses they also made. They ate well, dining on meat they hunted, served with corn, squash, berries, and sunflower seeds, bounty from trading with the Mandans for repairs by the blacksmiths. They mended kettles and other iron objects the natives had received from Hudson Bay and Northwest Fur companies

Life at Fort Clatsop was much harsher. They were nearly out of trade goods, it rained continually, and the main meal three times a day was lean, boiled elk. The most exciting event of the winter’s stay was the hike to what is now Seaside and Cannon Beach to check on the salt makers and see the great whale carcass.

As I have stated, no one knows how the forts actually appeared. We all appreciate those dedicated folks who have done such a tremendous job in reconstructing the forts. Now we at least have an idea. That is where I started on this project. I owe Mike Stoll of Fort Mandan, and Bill Casper from Fort Clatsop for filling in more gaps.Barbara Coppock

(This etching also contains a bronze medallion taken from the Lewis, Clark, and Sacagawea Memorial sculpture by artist, Bob Scriver.)