Why did the Lewis and Clark expedition build Fort Clatsop?

Why did the Lewis and Clark expedition build Fort Clatsop?

Fort Clatsop is a High Potential Historic Site on the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail. On December 7, 1805, the expedition encamped at the site they selected for their winter quarters. It was desirable for the availability of game, proximity to the ocean for salt-making, and moderate temperatures.

When did Lewis and Clark build Clatsop?

The Lewis and Clark Expedition wintered at Fort Clatsop before returning east to St. Louis in the spring of 1806. It took just over 3 weeks for the Expedition to build the fort, and it served as their camp from December 8, 1805 until their departure on March 23, 1806.

What was the purpose of Fort Clatsop?

Fort Clatsop was the winter encampment for the Corps of Discovery from December 1805 to March 1806. The visitor center includes a replica of Fort Clatsop similar to the one built by the explorers, an interpretive center offering an exhibit hall, bookstore, and two films.

Why did Lewis and Clark make Maps?

Upon their return, Lewis and Clark ended the hope of a navigable water route across the continent via the Missouri River system. However, they brought with them knowledge of new lands and resources for the growing country. Clark used this knowledge to construct a new map of the West, which he completed in 1810.

Why did Lewis and Clark leave Fort Clatsop?

This time, however, Lewis and Clark had the advantage of knowing the route they would take. Still, they knew the passage would be difficult, and they were anxious to find the Nez Perce Indians, whose help they would need to cross the mountains.

What did Lewis and Clark discover at Fort Clatsop?

Replica of Fort Clatsop, built in 1950s, at what is believed to be the site of original. In November 1805, the Corps of Discovery reached the Pacific Ocean. Having found “the most practicable and navigable passage across the Continent of North America,” the mission was complete.

What happened when Lewis and Clark met the Chinook?

Looking up the river, almost in a line due east, Mount St. To Lewis and Clark, the Chinook were the people living on the north side of the Columbia river’s estuary. When Lewis and Clark met them, the people of Baker Bay had been trading with European ships for more than a decade.

Did Lewis and Clark follow Columbia River?

They followed the Missouri to its headwaters, and over the Continental Divide at Lemhi Pass. In canoes, they descended the mountains by the Clearwater River, the Snake River, and the Columbia River, past Celilo Falls, and past what is now Portland, Oregon, at the meeting of the Willamette and Columbia Rivers.

When did Lewis and Clark get to Astoria?

After reaching the Pacific Ocean in November 1805, the corps established Fort Clatsop, near present-day Astoria, Oregon, as its winter quarters. Then, on March 23, 1806, the weary explorers headed for home and St. Louis. They retrieved their horses from the Nez Percé Indians and crossed the Bitterroot Mountains.

What did Lewis and Clark discover in their expedition?

But during their 8,000-mile journey from Missouri to the Pacific Ocean and back between 1804-1806, Lewis and Clark discovered 122 animal species, including iconic American animals like the grizzly bear, coyote, prairie dog and bighorn sheep.