Introduction
If you’re interested in American history, you’ve probably heard of the Lewis and Clark expedition. This group of explorers set out from St. Louis in 1804 to explore the Louisiana Purchase, which had recently been acquired by the United States from France. The expedition lasted over two years, and covered thousands of miles. One of the states the explorers passed through was Illinois. Today, you can retrace their steps and explore this fascinating state.
Beginnings in Illinois
The Lewis and Clark expedition entered what is now Illinois on November 25, 1803. They traveled down the Ohio River and up the Mississippi, landing at Camp Dubois, which was located in what is now the town of Wood River. The campsite is now part of the Lewis and Clark State Historic Site. Here, the expedition spent the winter preparing for their journey westward. You can visit the site and see replicas of the original buildings, like the blacksmith and carpenter shops.
Journeying Westward
The journey westward through Illinois took the expedition through several sites of important historical significance, including present-day Alton, Grafton, and Kaskaskia. These towns are still standing, and you can visit them today to see what the expedition would have seen.
At Alton, for example, you can visit the site where Lewis and Clark and their team spent the night of November 29, 1803. It is believed that they slept on the ground and used buffalo skins for blankets. At Grafton, you can see the riverbanks where the explorers made camp on January 1, 1804.
Kaskaskia
Kaskaskia is perhaps the most famous site associated with the Lewis and Clark expedition in Illinois. This town, located on the banks of the Mississippi, served as the state’s first capital from 1809 to 1818. It is home to some of the most prominent landmarks on the route, including the Liberty Bell of the West, which is reported to have been rung in celebration of Missouri’s admission to the Union in 1821.
The town also has the historic Pierre Menard House, which served as the Illinois governor’s mansion from 1815-1822. Visitors will be astonished to see the nearby Fort Kaskaskia, where Lewis and Clark traveled through and where the first American flag was flown over Illinois.
Other Sites Along the Trail
Some of the other sites that the Lewis and Clark expedition passed through in Illinois include the historic village of Elsah, Pere Marquette State Park, and the confluence of the Missouri and Mississippi rivers. At Pere Marquette State Park, you can hike the trails and see views that are similar to what Lewis and Clark would have seen when they crossed the river.
Conclusion
Following the Lewis and Clark trail in Illinois is a thrilling journey of historic discovery. There are many sites to visit, including the Lewis and Clark State Historic Site, Alton, Grafton, Kaskaskia, and Pere Marquette State Park. Whether you’re an enthusiastic history buff or just interested in learning more about Illinois, this trail is an excellent way to explore the state and to see some of its most significant landmarks and attractions.