Lewis Discovers Great Falls of the Missouri River

June 13th, 1805

June 13th, 1805

Lewis Discovers Great Falls of the Missouri River
How Long Ago?

219 years, 9 months, 2 days ago

Location

Great Falls, Montana, USA

Category

Exploration & Discovery

People
  • Meriwether Lewis
  • William Clark
  • George Drouillard
  • John Colter
  • Patrick Gass
Links & References
Tags

Lewis Discovers Great Falls of the Missouri River

Meriwether Lewis and four companions explored ahead of the main expedition and encountered the majestic Great Falls of the Missouri River. This incredible natural feature, located in present-day Montana, presented both a breathtaking view and considerable challenges for the expedition ahead. The discovery marked a significant milestone in their journey across the uncharted American West.

Lewis explored ahead of the main expedition party.

The Great Falls presented significant navigation challenges.

This area holds five distinct waterfalls.

Lewis documented the local environment and resources.

What Happened?

Meriwether Lewis, as part of the famed Lewis and Clark Expedition, set out with four companions to scout ahead of the main group. Their journey took them through the rugged terrain of the American West, where they encountered extraordinary landscapes, including the Great Falls of the Missouri River located in present-day Montana. The Falls consist of a series of five separate falls cascading dramatically over rock formations, creating a powerful spectacle of nature. The scouting party's task was crucial, as they needed to assess whether the main party could navigate around these falls, which posed an obstacle to their overall journey west.

The falls marked a point of transition for the expedition. Previously, the team had been traversing relatively flatter land, but the daunting geography ahead meant they faced new challenges. Lewis's detailed observations and notes about the falls included the surrounding landscape, local flora and fauna, and indications of potential Native American populations in the vicinity. This scouting mission played a critical role in determining the future trajectory of the expedition. The findings would also contribute to the knowledge of the indigenous people inhabiting the region and the environment they lived within.

As the expedition continued, the information gathered at the Great Falls would influence navigation strategies and resource management during the challenging journey ahead. It became apparent that the great waterway that is the Missouri River, while being a vital route for travel and trade, also presented formidable natural barriers that would require careful planning and consideration. This discovery underscored the expedition's dual goals of scientific exploration and claims of land for the United States, exemplifying the spirit of exploration during this pivotal time in American history.

Why Does it Matter?

The discovery of the Great Falls was notable for its profound implications on the Lewis and Clark Expedition. Understanding the geography and natural barriers of the American West was essential for future exploration and settlement. The Great Falls represented both an awe-inspiring natural wonder and a challenge that drove further innovations in navigation and interaction with the land. This moment served as a significant turning point in American exploration and reflected the era's spirit of inquiry and expansion.

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