The names of the french Ingishees, or Hirelens-

in Perogue

1 Battist de Shone Patrn

2 Joseph Le bartee

3 Lasoness

4 Paul Preemau

5 Chalo

6 E. Cann

7 Roie

8 Charlo Cougee

in the large Boat

*J. Le bartee

Rivee

bow men

Pieter Crousatt half Indian

William La Beice Mallat

3 Sergts. & 23 men for the Boat

George Drewyer. Hunter & 4 Horses

1 Corpl & 4 Privates in a Perogue to be Sent back from Plate

river

Mr. Dueron inteptr for the Sues Capt. Lewis my Self & York

in all 46 men July 4th 4 horses & a Dog

[Clark, July 4, 1804]

July 4th Wednesday ussered in the day by a discharge of one shot from

our Bow piece, proceeded on, passed the mouth of a (1) Bayeau lading

from a large Lake on the S. S. which has the apperance of being once

the bed of the river & reaches parrelel for Several Miles Came to on

the L. S. to refresh ourselves &. Jos. Fields got bit by a Snake, which

was quickly doctered with Bark by Cap Lewis. (2) Passed a Creek 12 yds.

wide on L. S. comeing out of an extensive Prarie reching within 200

yards of the river, as, this Creek has no name, and this being the we

Dine (on corn) the 4th of July the day of the independance of the U. S.

call it 4th of July 1804 Creek, Capt. Lewis walked on Shore above this

Creek and discovered a high moun from the top of which he had an

extensive view, 3 paths Concentering at the moun Saw great numbers of

Goslings to day which Were nearly grown, the before mentioned Lake is

clear and Contain great quantities of fish an Gees & Goslings, The

great quantity of those fowl in this Lake induce me to Call it the

Gosling Lake, a Small Creek & Several Springs run in to the Lake on the

East Side from the hills the land on that Side verry good--(3) We came

to and camped in the lower edge of a Plain where 2d old Kanzas village

formerly Stood, above the mouth of a Creek 20 yds wide this Creek we

call Creek Independence as we approached this place the Praree had a

most butifull appearance Hills & Valies interspsd with Coops of Timber

gave a pleasing deversity to the Senery. the right fork of Creek

Independence Meandering thro the middle of the Plain a point of high

Land near the river givs an allivated Situation. at this place the

Kanzas Indians formerley lived. this Town appears to have covd. a large

Space, the nation must have been noumerous at the time they lived here,

the Cause of their moveing to the Kanzas River, I have never heard, nor

Can I learn; war with their neghbors must have reduced this nation and

Compelled them to retire to a Situation in the plains better Calculated

for their defence and one where they may make use of their horses with

good effect, in persueing their enemey, we Closed the by a Discharge

from our bow piece, an extra Gill of whiskey.

[Clark, July 5, 1804]

July the 5th 1804 Set out verry early this morning, Swam the horse

across the river, proceeded on for two miles under the bank where the

old Kansas town formerly stood The Cause of those people moveing from

this place I cannot learn, but naterally conclude that War has reduced

their nation & compelled them to retire further into the Plains with a

view of defending themselves & opposeing their enemey (more effectuall)

on hors back (I neglected to mention yesterday that the Lake on the S.

S. was large Say 3/4 me. wide & 7 or 8 long one creek & Several brooks

running into it from the hills, it contains Great quantities of Sun

fish & Gosling's from which we gave it the name,) passed Some verry bad

Sand bars Situated parrelel to each other, (1) the Boat turned three

times once on the ____ of a Drift wood. She recved no proceiviable

damage, we came to for Dinner at a Beever house, Cap Lewis's Dog Seamon

went in & drove them out. the high Lands on the L. S. is open, a few

trees Scattering (2) passed a Small Creek on the L. S. in the 1s bend

to the left I call yellow oaker creek from a bank of that Mineral just

above. we camped on the L. S. under a high bank Latd. 39° 25' 41" North

on the banks of this river I observe great quants of Grapes, berries &

roses Deer is not So plenty in this three days past as they were below

that. Elks are plenty about those Praries. Some Buffalow Sign.

[Clark, July 5, 1804]

July 5th Thursday 1804

Set out verry early, proceeded on near the bank where the old village

Stood for two miles, (Swam the hors found a few days ago) passed Some

bad Sand bars, The Origan of this old village is uncertain M. de

Bourgmont a French officer who Comdd. a fort near the Town of the

Missouris in about the year 1724 and in July of the Same year he

visited this Village at that time the nation was noumerous & well

desposed towards the french Mr. Du Pratz must have been badly informed

as to the Cane opposd this place we have not Seen one Stalk of reed or

cane on the Missouries, he States that the "Indians that accompanied M

De Bourgmont Crossed to the Canzes Village on floats of Cane"

Those people must have been verry noumerous at that time as Mr. De B.

was accompanied by 300 Warriers, 500 young people & 300 Dogs of burthen

out of this Village

The Cause of Those Indians moveing over to the Kanzis river I have

never lernt--we passed Some bad Sand bars, Situated parrelel to each

other (1) The Boat turned twice on the quick Sand & once on a raft of

Drift, no procievable damage Prarie Contine on the high land on the L.

S. passd a Small Creek (2) on L. S. in the first bend to the L S. I

call Yellow-Oaker Creek from a quantity of that Mineral in a bank a

little above

The river Continue to fall a little--I observe great quantities of

Summer & fall Grapes, Berries & Wild roases on the banks--Deer is not

so plenty as usual, great Deel of Elk Sign. (Wind from S E)

[Clark, July 6, 1804]

6th July Friday. We Set out early this morning & Proceeded on (the

river falls Slowly) wind S. W) passed a Sand bar in 1st bend to the

right (1) passed a Small Island at the S. pt. a verry warm day (worthy

of remark that the water of this river or Some other Cause, I think

that the most Probable throws out a greater preposn. of Swet than I

could Suppose Could pass thro the humane body Those men that do not

work at all will wet a Shirt in a Few minits & those who work, the Swet

will run off in Streams) opposit the 3rd point passed a Prarie on the

S. S. Called Reeveys Prarie (fro a man of that name being Killed in it)

opposit this Prarie the river is Confined in a verry narrow Space

Crowded on S. S. by Sands which were moveing and difficuelt to pass.

the Hunts. Sent in 3 Deer Jurked on the 4th point of to day is a Small

Island & a Sand bar 2 miles out in the river, this is Called the Grand

Bend, or Grande de Tour, I walked on this Sand bar found it a light

Sand intersperced with Small Pebbles of various Kinds, also pit Coal of

an excellent quallity was lodged on the Sand, We camped on the L. S. at

a small creek a whiper will perched on the boat for a Short time, I

gave his name to the Creek

[Clark, July 6, 1804]

July 6th, Friday We Set out early this morning, wind from the S. W.

passed a large Sand bar in the 1st. bend to the right. (1) passed a

Small Island at the S. point opposit the 3rd point we passed a Prarie

on the S. S. Called Reeveys Prarie at this place the river is Confined

in a verry narrow Channel Crouded by a Sand bar from the L. Point This

Sand bar from the L. Point, this Sand bar is verry bad, at the 4th

Point from the S. S. is a verry extensive bar, at the Point of which is

a Small willow Island this is Called the Grand Detour or Great bend

I walked on this Sand bar and found the Sand was light, with Collection

of Small pebble, & some Pit Coal I observe that the men Swet more than

is Common from Some Cause, I think the Missouries water is the

principal Cause our hunters Sent in 3 Bucks today The river Still fall

a little

[Clark, July 7, 1804]

7th of July Satturday 1804 Set out early passed Some verry Swift water

on the L. S. which Compelled us to Draw up by the Cord. a verry warm

morning, passed a butifull Prarie on the right Side which extends back,

those Praries has much the appearance from the river of farms, Divided

by narrow Strips of woods those Strips of timber grows along the runs

which rise on the hill & pass to the river a Cleft above, one man sick

(Frasure) Struck with the Sun, Saw a large rat on the Side of the bank,

Killed a wolf on the Bank passed (2) a verry narrow part of the river,

all confined within 200 yards, a yellow bank above, passed a Small

willow Island on the S. point, (in Low water those Small Willow Islands

are joined to the Sand bars makeing out from the Points) a pond on the

S. S near the prarie we passed yesterday in which G D. Saw Several

young Swans we Came to and Camped on the L. S. and two men Sent out

last evening with the horses did not join us this evening agreeable to

orders--a hard wind with Some rain from the N, E at 7 oClock which

lasted half an hour, with thunder & lightning. river fall a little

[Clark, July 7, 1804]

July the 7th Satturday 1804 Set out early passed Some Swift water,

which obliged us to draw up by roapes, a Sand bare at the point opposit

a butifull Prarie on the S. Side Calld. (1) St. Michul, those Praries

on the river has verry much the appearence of farms from the river

Divided by narrow Strips of wood land, which wood land is Situatd. on

the runs leading to the river. passed a Bluff of yellow Clay above the

Prarie. Saw a large rat on the bank. Killed a Wolf. at 4 oClock pass a

Verry narrow part of the river water Confd. in a bead not more than 200

yards wide at this place the Current runs against the L. Side. no Sand

to Confine the Current on the S. S. passed a Small sand Island above

the Small Islds. Situated at the points, in low water form a part of

the Sand bars makeing out from those points

Incamped on the S. S. at 7 oClock a Violent Ghust of wind from the N.

E. with Some rain, which lasted half an hour (G D. informs me that he

Saw in a Pond on the S. S. which we passed yesterday; a number of young

Swans-,) one man verry Sick, Struck with the Sun, Capt. Lewis bled him

& gave Niter which has revived him much

[Clark, July 8, 1804]

8th of July Sunday Set out early this morning, the Sick man much

better, Serjt. Oddeway was waiting at a Creek on the S. S. below an

Island, passed (1) two Island on the S. S. and came to at the upper

point, G Drewyer went out R. Fields & Guterich, five men Sick to day

with a violent Head ake &c. and Several with Boils, we appoint a Cook

to each mess to take Charge of the Provisions. in Serjt. Pryor's =

Collens in Sjt. Ordway's Werner in Sergt. Floyd's Thompson, The french

men Killed a young Deer on the Bank, (2) passed up a narrow Channel of

about 80 or 100 yds wide about 5 miles to the mouth of Nadawa River

which corns in to this channel from the N W. and is abt. 70 yards wide

at its mouth ____ feet Deep and has a jentle Current, Perogues can

navagate this river near its head, which is between the Missourie & the

Grand River, passed up the gut 3/4 of a mile to the river at the head

of the Island & camped opposit the head of this Island is another

nearest the Middle R this Island Nadawa is the largest I have Seen,

formed by a Channel washing into the Nadawa river.--"8 or 10000 acrs"

[Clark, July 8, 1804]

July the 8th Sunday 1804

Set out early passed a Small Creek on the S. S. and two (1) Small

Islands on the S S. five men Sick to day with a violent head ake &c. we

made Some arrangements as to provisions & Messes, came to for Dinner at

the lower point of a very large Island Situated near the S. S. after a

delay of two hours we passed a narrow channel of 45 to 80 yds wide five

miles to the mouth of (3) Nkdawa River, This river Coms in from the

North and is navagable for Perogues Some distance. it is about 70 yards

wide a little above the mouth, at the mouth not So wide, the mud of the

Gut running out of the Missourie is thrown and Settles in the mouth

half a mile higher up this Channel or gut is the upper point of the

Said Island, This Island is Called Nadawa, & is the largest I have Seen

in the river, containing 7 or 8000 acres of Land Seldom overflowed we

Camped at the head of this Island on the S. S. opposit the head or our

Camp is a Small Island near the middle of the river, river Still

falling. our flank party did not join us this evening

[Lewis, July 8, 1804]

Detachment Orders

Nadawa Island July 8th 1804.-

In order to insure a prudent and regular use of all provisions issued

to the crew of the Batteaux in future, as also to provide for the equal

distribution of the same among the individuals of the several messes,

The Commanding Officers Do appoint the following persons to recieve,

cook, and take charges of the provisions which may from time to time be

issued to their respective messes, (viz) John B. Thompson to Sergt.

Floyd's mess,

William Warner to Sergt. Ordway's mess, and John Collins to Sergt.

Pryor's Mess.--These Superintendants of Provision, are held immediately

respon sible to the commanding Officers for a judicious consumption of

the provi sion which they recieve; they are to cook the same for their

several messes in due time, and in such manner as is most wholesome and

best calculated to afford the greatest proportion of nutriment; in

their mode of cooking they are to exercise their own judgment; they

shall allso point out what part, and what proportion of the mess

provisions are to be consumed at each stated meal (i. e.) morning, noon

and night; nor is any man at any time to take or consume any part of

the mess provisions without the privity, knowledge and consent of the

Superintendant. The superintendant is also held responsible for all the

cooking eutensels of his mess. in considera tion of the duties imposed

by this order on Thompson, Warner, and Collins, they will in future be

exempt from guard duty, tho they will still be held on the royster for

that duty, and their regular tour-shall be per formed by some one of

their rispective messes; they are exempted also from pitching the tents

of the mess, collecting firewood, and forks poles &c. for cooking and

drying such fresh meat as may be furnished them; those duties are to be

also performed by the other members of the mess.

M. Lewis

Wm. Clark

[Clark, July 9, 1804]

July the 9th Monday 1804 Sent one man back to the mouth of the River to

mark a tree, to let the party on Shore See that the Boat had passed the

river, Set out early passed (1) the head of the Island Situated in the

middle of the river a Sand bar at the head, (2) passed the mouth of a

Creek or Bayou on the S. S. leading from a large Pond of about three

miles in length, at 8 oClock it commenced raining, the wind changed

from N E. to S. W. (3) at 6 miles passed the mouth of a Small Creek on

the L. S. called Monters Creek, the river at this place is wide with a

Sand bar in the Middle, passed a place on the L. S. about 2 miles above

the Creek, where Several french men camped two years to hunt--(4)

passed a Island on the S S. of the river in a bend, opsd. a high Land

on the L. S. wind Shifted to the N. W. in the evining, opsd. this

Island, and on the L. S. Loup or Wolf River Coms in, this river is

about 60 yards Wide, but little water running at the mouth, this river

heads with the waters of the Kanzas, and has a perogue navigation Some

distance, it abounds with Beaver, Camped opposit the head of the Island

on the L. S. Saw a fire on the S. S. Supposedly the four flankers, to

be theire, Sent a perogue for them, the Patroon & Bowman of the Perogue

French, they returned & informed, that when they approached the fire,

it was put out, which caused them to return, this report causd. us to

look out Supposeing a pty. of Soux going to war, firierd the bow piec

to allarm & put on their guard the men on Shore everey thing in

readiness for Defence.

[Clark, July 9, 1804]

July 9th Monday 1804

one man Sent back to the river we passed last night to Blase a tree

with a view to notify the party on Shore of our passing Set out and

passed the head of the (1) Island which was Situated opposit to our

Camp last night a Sand bar at the head (2) opsd. this Island a Creek or

Bayaue Corns in from a large Pond on the Starboard Side, as our

flanking party Saw great numbers of Pike in this Pond, I have laid it

down with that name anex'd,v at 8 oClock the wind Shifted from the N, E

to S W and it commenced raining. (3) at Six miles passed the mouth of

Creek on the L. S. Called Monter's Creek, about two mile above is some

Cabins where our Bowman & Several frenchmen Campd. two years (4) passed

an Island on the S. S. in a Bend of the river opposit Some Clifts on

the L. S. the wind Shifted to the N W opposit this Island and on the L.

Side (Loup) or Wolf River Coms in, this river is about 60 yards wide

and heads with the waters of the Kansis, and is navagable for Perogues

"Some destance up" Camped at a point on the L. S. opposit the head of

the Island, our party was incamped on the Opposit Side, their not

answering our Signals Caused us to Suspect the persons Camped opposit

to us was a war party of Soux, we fired the Bow piece to alarm the

party on Shore, ailed prepared to oppose if attacted

[Clark, July 10, 1804]

July 10th Tuesday Set out this morning with a view to Land near the

fire Seen last night, & recornetre, but Soon discovered that our men

were at the fire, they were a Sleep early last evening, and from the

Course of the Wind which blew hard, their yells were not heard by party

in the perogue, a mistake altogether-. proceeded on, passed Prarie on

the upper Side of Woolf River, at 4 miles passed (1) a Small Creek L.

S. Called R. Pape this Creek is about 15 yds. Wide-and called after a

Spanierd who killed himself at the mouth. (2) Dined on an Island Called

de Selamen and delayed 3 hours, and proceeded on, opposit this Isld. on

the L. S. is a (3) butifull Bottom Prarie whuch will Contain about 2000

acres of Land covered with wild rye & wild Potatoes, gread numbers of

Goslings on the Banks & in the Ponds near the river, Capt Lewis Killed

two this evening, we came to & Camped for the night. at a point on the

S. S. opposit a yellow Clay Clift.--our men all getting well but much

fatigued, the river is on a Stand nether rise nor fall, The bottom on

the S. S. is verry extensive & thick. the Hills or high land is near

the river on the L. S. and but thinly timbered, back of those hills is

open plains.

[Clark, July 10, 1804]

July 10th Tuesday 1804

Set out early this morning and Crossd the river with a view to See who

the party was that Camped on the other Side, we Soon discovered them to

be our men,--proceeded on passed a Prarie on the L. S. at 4 miles

passed a Creek L. S Called (1) Pappie after a man who Killed himself at

its mouth, this Creek is 15 yds wide--(2) Dined on an Isld. Called de

Salamin Delayed 3 hours on this Island to recruit the men opposit on

the L. S. is a butifull bottom Plain of about 2000 acres (3) Covered

with wild rye & Potatoes, intermix't with the grass, we camped on the

S. S. opposit a yellow Clay Clift, Capt. Lewis Killed two young Gees or

Goslings this evening--The men of the party getting better, but much

fatigued--The river on a Stand--The bottom is verry extensive on the S.

S. and thickly intersperced with Vines The High Land approaches near

the river on the L. S. and well timbered next to the river, back of

those hills the Plains Commence.

[Clark, July 11, 1804]

July 11th Wednesday, Set out early proceeded on passed a Willow (1)

Island in a bend to the S. S. Sent out Dreweyer & Jo. Fields to hunt,

Back of this Island a creek corns in on the S. S. called by the Indians

Little Tarkio Creek I went on Shore above this Island on the S. S.

found the bottom Subject for overflow wet and verry thickly interwoven

with grape Vines--proceeded on at about 1/2 a miles from the river

about 3 ms. and observed fresh Sign of a horse, I prosueed the track,

with an expectation of finding a Camp of Indians on the river, when I

got to the river, I saw a horse on the Beech, this horse as appears was

left last winter by Some hunting party, probable the Othouez, I joined

the Boat on the Sand Island Situated opposit the mouth of the Ne Ma har

River, this river Coms in on the L. S. is about 80 yds Wide and

navagable for Perogues Some Distance up the praries Commnce above the

mouth and Continus on both Sides of this R Drewyer killed 6 Deer to day

J. Field one Several hunters Sent out up the Nemahar R

[Clark, July 11, 1804]

July 11th, Wednesday 1804

Set out early passed a Willow Island (1) in a bend on the S. S. back of

this Island a Creek Corns in Called by the Indians Tar-ki-o

I went on Shore above this Creek and walked up parrelel with the river

at ab ut half a mile distant, the bottom I found low & Subject to

overflow, Still further out, the under groth & vines wer So thick that

I could not get thro with ease after walking about three or 4 miles I

observed a fresh horse track where he had been feeding I turned my

course to the river and prosud the track and found him on a Sand beach

This horse Probably had been left by Some party of Otteaus hunters who

wintered or hunted in this quarter last fall or Wintr. I joined the

party on a large Sand Island imediately opposit the mouth of Ne Ma haw

River, at which place they had Camped, this Island is Sand about half

of it Covered with Small Willows of two different Kinds, one Narrow &

the other a Broad Leaf. Several hunters Sent out to day on both Sides

of the river, Seven Deer Killed to day. Drewyer Killd Six of them, made

Some Luner observations this evening.

[Clark, July 12, 1804]

July 12th Thursday Som hunters out on the S. S. those on the L. S. did

not return last night, our object in delaying here is to tak Some

Observations and rest the men who are much fatigued made Sundery

observations, after an early Brackfast I took five men and went up the

River Ne Ma har about three miles, to an open leavel part of an emence

prarie, at the Mouth of a Small Creek on the Lower Side, I went on

Shore, & passed thro the plain passed Several noles to the top of a

high artificial Noal from the top of this noal I had an emence,

extensive & pleaseing prospect, of the Countrey around, I could See the

meandering of the Little River for at least 10 miles winding thro a

meadow of 15 or 20000 acres of high bottom land covered with Grass

about 41/2 feet high, the high lands which rose irregularly, & were

toped with Mounds or antent Graves which is to me a Strong evidence of

this Countrey haveing been thickly Settled-.This River is about 80

yards wide with a gentle Current and heads up near the Parnee Village

on River Blue a branch of Kansas, a little timbered land near the mouth

for 1 mile above, only a fiew Trees, and thickets of Plumbs Cheres &c

are Seen on its banks the Creeks & little reveens makeing into the

river have also Some timber--I got grapes on the banks nearly ripe,

observed great quantities, of Grapes, plums Crab apls and a wild

Cherry, Growing like a Comn. Wild Cherry only larger & grows on a Small

bush, on the side of a clift Sand Stone 1/2 me. up & on Lower Side I

marked my name & day of the month near an Indian Mark or Image of

animals & a boat Tried Willard for Sleeping on his post, our hunters

killed some Deer, Saw Elk & Buffalow.

[Clark, July 12, 1804]

July 12th, Thursday 1804

Concluded to Delay here to day with a view of takeing equal altitudes &

makeing observations as well as refreshing our men who are much

fatigued--after an early Brackfast I with five men in a Perogue

assended the River Ne-Ma-haw about 2 miles to the mouth of a Small

Creek on the Lower Side, here I got out of the Perogue, after going to

Several Small Mounds in a leavel plain, I assended a hill on the Lower

Side, on this hill Several Artificial Mounds were raised, from the top

of the highest of those Mounds I had an extensive view of the

Serounding Plains, which afforded one of the most pleasing prospects I

ever beheld, under me a Butifull River of Clear water of about 80 yards

wide Meandering thro a leavel and extensive Meadow, as far as I could

See, the prospect Much enlivened by the fine Trees & Srubs which is

bordering the bank of the river, and the Creeks & runs falling into

it,-. The bottom land is covered with Grass of about 41/2 feet high,

and appears as leavel as a Smoth Surfice, the 2 bottom is also covered

with Grass and rich weeds & flours, interspersed with Copses of the

Osage Plumb. on the riseing lands, Small groves of trees are Seen, with

a numbers of Grapes and a Wild Cherry resembling the Common Wild

Cherry, only larger and grows on a Small bush on the tops of those

hills in every derection. I observed artifical mounds (or as I may more

justly term Graves) which to me is a Strong indication of this Country

being once Thickly Settled. (The Indians of the Missouris Still Keep up

the Custom of Burrying their dead on high ground) after a ramble of

about two miles about I returned to the perogue and decended down the

River, gathd. Som grapes nearly ripe, on a Sandstone Bluff about 1/4 of

a mile from its mouth on the Lower Side I observed Some Indian marks,

went to the rock which jutted over the water and marked my name & the

day of the month & year--This river heads near one of the Villages of

the Pania on the River Blue, a branch of the Kansas River.--above this

river about half a mile the Prarie Comes to the Missouri after my

return to Camp on the Island Completed Som observations, Tred tried a

man for sleeping on his Post & inspected the arms amunition &c. of the

party found all complete, Took Some Luner Obsevations. three Deer

killed to day. Latd. 39° 55' 56" N.

[Lewis and Clark, July 12, 1804]

Camp New Island July 12th 1804.

A Court matial consisting of the two commanding officers will convene

this day at 1 OCk. P.M. for the trial of such prisoners as may be

brought before them; one of the court will act as judge Advocate.

M. Lewis

Wm. Clark

The Commanding officers. Capt. M. Lewis & W. Clark constituted

themselves a Court martial for the trial of Such prisoners as are

Guilty of Capatol Crimes, and under the rules and articles of War

punishable by Death,

Alexander Willard was brought foward Charged with "Lying down and

Sleeping on his post whilst a Sentinal, on the night of the 11th.

Instant" (by John Ordway Sergeant of the Guard)

To this Charge the prisoner pleads. Guilty of Lying Down, and not

Guilty, of Going to Sleep. The Court after Duly Considering the

evidence aduced, are of oppinion that the Prisoner Alexdn. Willard is

guilty of every part of the Charge exhibited against him. it being a

breach of the rules and articles of War (as well as tending to the

probable distruction of the party) do Sentence him to receive One

hundred lashes on his bear back, at four different times in equal

propation.--and order that the punishment Commence this evening at

Sunset, and Continue to be inflicted, (by the Guard) every evening

untill Completed

Wm Clark

M. Lewis

[Clark, July 13, 1804]

My notes of the 13th of July by a Most unfortunate accident blew over

Board in a Storm in the morning of the 14th obliges me to refur to the

Journals of Serjeants, and my own recollection the accurrences Courses

Distance &c. of that day--last night a violent Storm from the N. N, E.-

(1) passed Tar-ki-o River, at 2 miles a chant. running into this river

3 ms. abov forms St Josephs Isld. Passed an elegt Prarie in the 1st

bend to the left. Containg a grass resmlg Timothy, with Seed like flax,

(2) passed a Island in a bend to the S. S. at 12 ms. I walked on Shore

S. S. lands, low & overflows, Killed two Goslings nearly Grown, Sailed

under a Wind from the South all day, Camped on a Sand Island on the L.

Pt. opposit a high & extensiv Prarie, on the S. S. the Hills about 4 or

5 me. off, this Plain appears extensive, great appearance of a Storm

from the North W. this evening verry agreeable the wind Still from the

South-

from the Osagies Nation with twenty odd of the Natives or chiefs of the

Nation with him sailed dowen the Mississippi bound to St Louis & 3 guns

fired showers of rain Showers of Rain all that night

[Clark, July 13, 1804]

July 13th Friday 1804

Set out at Sun rise, and prosd. on under a gentle Breeze, at two miles

passed the mouth of a Small river on the S. S. Called by the Indians

Tarki-o, a Channel running out of the river three miles above (which is

now filled up with Sand) runs into this Creek & and formed a Island

Called St.

Josephs Several Sand bars parralel to each other above--In the first

bend to the left is Situated a Butifull & extensive plain, Cover'd with

Grass resembling Timothy except the Seed which resembles Flax Seed,

this plain also abounds in Grapes of defferent Kinds Some nearly ripe.

I Killed two Goslings nearly Grown, Several others Killed and cought on

Shore, also one old Goose, with pin fethers, She Could not fly--at

about 12 miles passd. a Island Situated in a bend on the S. S. above

this Island is a large Sand bar Covered with willows. The wind from the

South, Camped on a large Sand Bar makeing out from the L. P. opposit a

high hanson Prarie, the hills about 4 or 5 miles on S. S. this plain

appeard extensive, the Clouds appear to geather to the N. W. a most

agreeable Breeze from the South (I walked on Shore on the S. S. the

lands are low Subject to overflow)

Last night at about 10 oClock a violent Storm of wind from the N. N. E.

which lasted with Great violence for about one hour, at which time a

Shower of rain Succeeded.

The men on Shore did not join us this after noon--The river nearly on a

Stand--the high lands on the S. S. has only been Seen at a Distance

above the Nordaway River, those on the S. L. aproaching the river at

every bend, on the Side next to the river well timbered, the opsd. Side

open & the Commencmt. of Plains.

[Clark, July 14, 1804]

July the 14th Satturday Some hard Shours of rain accompaned with Some

wind detained us untill about 7 oClock, we then Set out and proceeded

on about a mile and th atmispeir became Suddenly darkened by a blak &

dismal looking Cloud, we wer in a Situation, near the upper point of a

Sd. Isd. & the opsd Shore falling in in this Situation a Violent Storm

of Wint from the N, E (passing over an Open plain, Struck the boat

nearly Starboard, quatering, & blowing down the Current) the exerssions

of all our Men who were out in an instant, aded to a Strong Cable and

Anchor was Scrcely Sufficent to Keep the boat from being thrown up on

the Sand Island, and dashed to peices the Waves dasthed over on the

Side next to the wind the lockers which was covered with Tarpoling

prevented them coming into the boat untill the Boat was Creaned on the

Side from the Wind in this Situation we continued about 40 minits, the

two perogues about a quater of a mile above, one of them in a Similer

Situation with the Boat, the other under the charge of George Gibson in

a much better position, with her Ster faceing the wind, this Storm

Suddenly Seased, & 1 minit the river was as Smoth as glass, the wind

Shifted to the S. E and we Set Sail, and proceeded on passed (1) a

Small Island on the S. S. and Dined--R. Fields who has charge of the

horses &c. on Shore did not join us last night-. passed a old fort

where Mr. Bennet of St Louis winttered 2 years & traded with the

Otteaus & Parties on the S. S. 1 me. abov the little Island, I went out

on the L. S. and observed two Elk on a land in the river, in attempting

to get near those elk obseved one near us I Shot one. continued on

Shore & thro the bottom which was extensive, Some Small Praries, and a

peponce of high rich & well timbered bottom, in the Glades I saw wild

Timothy, Lams quarter Cuckle burs & rich weed, on the edges Plumbs of

different kinds Grapes, and Goose berries, Camped on the L. S. Ruben

Fields and Gulrich joined the Party two men unwell, one a Felin on his

finger, river fall

[Clark, July 14, 1804]

July 14th, Satturday 1804

Some hard Showers of rain this morning prevented our Setting out untill

7 oClock, at half past Seven, the atmispr. became Sudenly darkened by a

black and dismal looking Cloud, at the time we were in a Situation (not

to be bettered) near the upper point of the Sand Island, on which we

lay, and the opposit Shore, the bank was falling in and lined with

Snags as far as we could See down,-. in this Situation The Storm which

passd over an open Plain from the N. E. Struck the our boat on the

Starbd. quarter, and would have thrown her up on the Sand Island dashed

to peces in an Instant, had not the party leeped out on the Leward Side

and kept her off with the assistance of the ancker & Cable, untill the

Storm was over, the waves Dashed over her windward Side and She must

have filled with water if the Lockers which is covered with Tarpoling &

Threw of the water & prevented any quantity Getting into Bilge of the

Boat

In this Situation we continued about 40 Minits. when the Storm Sudenly

Seased and the river become Instancetaniously as Smoth as Glass.

The two perogus dureing this Storm was in a Similar Situation with the

boat about half a mile above--The wind Shifted to the S. E & We Saled

up passed a Small (1) Isld. Situated on the S. S. and Dined & Continud

two hours, men examine their arms--about a Mile above this Island,

passed a Small Tradeing fort on the S. S. where, Mr. Bennet of St.

Louis Traded with the Otteaus & Panies two years. I went on Shore to

Shoot Some Elk on a Sand bar to the L. S. I fired at one but did not

get him, went out into a large extensive bottom the greater part of

which overflows, the part that dose not overflow, is rich and well

timbered, Some Small open Praries near the hills, the Boat passed the

lower part of a large Island Situated on the S. S. above the Lower

point of this Island on the S. S. a (2) large Creek corns into the

river Called by the Maha's Indians Neesh-nah-ba-to-na 50 yds this is a

considerable Creek nearly as large as the Mine River, and runs parrelel

with the Missouri, the Greater part of its Course. In those Small

Praries or glades I saw wild Timothey, lambs-quarter, Cuckle burs; &

rich weed. on the edges Grows Sumr. Grapes, Plum's, & Gooseberries. I

Joined the boat which had Came to and Camped in a bend opposd. the

large Island before mentioned on the L. S. Several men unwell with

Boils, Felns, &c. The river falls a little.

[Clark, July 15, 1804]

July 15th Sunday 1804. a heavy fog this morning which Detained us

untill 7 oClock, put Drewyer Sgt. Floyd on Shore, at 9 I took two Men

and went on Shore, with a view to Kill Some elk, passed thro open

plains, and barroney lands Crossed three butifull Small Streams of

water, Saw great quantity of Cherres Plums, Grapes & Berries of Difft.

Kinds, the lands Generally of a good quallity, on the Streams the wood

escapes the fire, at about 7 miles I Struck the river at the mouth Ne

ma har Creek about 40 yds wide, near this Creek on a high part of the

Prarie I had a extensive View of the river & Countrey on both Sides. on

S. a contnuation of the plain as far as I could See, on the N. a bottom

Prarie of about 5 ms. wide & 18 or 20 long, hills back of this Plain. I

Swam across the Creek and waited for the Boat about three miles above,

we camped opsd. an Island.

[Clark, July 15, 1804]

July 15th, Sunday a heavy Fog this morning prevented our Setting out

before 7 oClock, at nine I took two men and walked on the L. S. I

crossed three butifull Streems of runnig water heading in the Praries

on those Streem the lands verry fine covered with pea Vine & rich weed

the high Praries are also good land Covered with Grass entirely void of

timber except what grows on the water, I proceeded on thro those

praries Several miles to the mouth of a large Creek on the L. S. called

(2) Ne ma har this is a Small river, about 100 yds. above the mouth it

is 40 yards wide, at the mouth (as all other Creeks & rivers falling

into the Missourie are) much narrower than a little distance up. after

continueing at the mouth of this Creek about an hour, I Swam across and

proceeded on about 3 miles and halted to wate for the boat, which was

Some distance below--In all this days march thro woods & Praries, I

only Saw three Deer & 3 fawns--I had at one part of the Prarie a verry

extensive view of all the Countrey around up and down the river a

Considerable distance, on the Larbd. Sd. one Continul Plain, on the S.

S. Some timber on the bank of the river, for a Short distance back of

this timber is a bottom Plain of four or five miles back to the hills

and under the hills between them & the river this plain appeared to

extend 20 or 30 miles, those Hills have but little timber, and the

Plain appears to Continu back of them--I Saw Great quantities of

Grapes, Plums, or 2 Kinds wild Cherries of 2 Kinds, Hazelnuts, and

Goosberries.

we Camped in a point of woods on the Larboard S. opsd. a large Island.

[Lewis, July 15, 1804]

Sunday July 15th

This evening I discovered that my Chronometer had stoped, nor can I

assign any cause for this accedent; she had been wound up the preceding

noon as usual. This is the third instance in which this instrument has

stopt in a similar manner since she nas been in my possession, tho the

first only since our departure from the River Dubois. in the two

preceding cases when she was again set in motion, and her rate of going

determined by a series of equal altitudes of the sun taken for that

purpose, it was found to be the same precisely as that mentioned in the

preliminary remarks to these observations, or 15 s & 5 tenths too slow

in 24 h-as her rate of going after stoping, and begin again set in

motion has in two instances proved to be the same, I have concluded,

that whatever this impediment may procede from, it is not caused by any

material injury which her works have sustained, and that when she is in

motion, her error on mean time above stated, may be depended on as

accurate. In consequence of the chronometer's having thus accedentally

stoped, I determined to come too at the first convenient place and make

such observations as were necessary to ascertain her error, establish

the Latitude & Longitude, and determine the variation of the nedle, in

order to fix a second point of departure.

[Clark, July 16, 1804]

July 16 1804 Monday

Set out verry early and proceeded on the Side of a Prarie passd the

head of the Island opsd. which we Camped last night, (1) passed a Small

willow Island off the L. point, hills make near the river (2) passed a

large Island nearest the L. S. below the pt. a Small willow Isd. also

one on the Side. this large Island is called fair Sun the wind

favourable from the South. Boat run on a Sawyer, (4) pass a place on

the L. S. where the hill abt. 20 acres has Sliped into the river lately

just above passed under a clift of Sand Stone L. S. a number of Burds

Nests in the holes & crevises of this rock which Continus 2 miles, (5)

passed a willow Island in a Deep bend to the S. S. river 2 mile wide at

this place, note Deed Snags across, passed the Lower point of a Island

called Isle Chauvin Situated on the L. Point opposit an extensive

Prarie on the S. S., This prarie I call Ball pated Prarie from the

range ball hills, at from 3 to 6 miles from the river as far as my

Sight will extend, we camped in a point of woods opsd. the Isd. on S.

S. in a bend.

[Clark, July 16, 1804]

July 16th Monday 1804

Set out this morning verry early and proceeded on under a gentle breeze

from the S passed the upper point of the Island an extensive Prarie on

the L. S. passed a large (1) Island Called Fair Sun Isd. a Small willow

Isld. at the lower point on the L. S. the boat passd on the L. S. of

those Islands Several Small Sand Islands in the Channel, the Boat run

on the point of a Snag, (2) passed a place above the Island L. S. where

about 20 acres of the hill has latterly Sliped into the river above a

clift of Sand Stone for about two miles, the resort of burds of

Different Kinds to reare their young. (5) Passed a willow Island in a

Deep Bend to the S. S. opposit the river is about two miles wide, and

not verry Deep as the Snag may be Seen across, Scattering, passed the

Lower point of an Island called by French Chauvin's Situated off the L.

Point opposit an extensive Prarie on the S. S. This Prarie I call Ball

gated Prarie, from a range of Ball Hills parrelel to the river & at

from 3 to 6 miles distant from it, and extends as far up & Down as I

Can See, we Camped in a point of woods on the L. S. above the Lower

point of the Island. river falling.

[Lewis, July 16, 1804]

Monday 16th we set out at an early hour; the morning was cloudy; could

find no convenient situation for observation; proceeded untill a little

before noon when we came too On the Lard. Shore opposite to the center

of good Island where I observed the meridian altitude of O's L. L. with

Octant by the back observation, wich gave me the Latitude--40° 20' 12" N.

I now set the Chronometer as near noon as this observation would enable

me, and proceeded untill evening, when we came too on the Stard. shore

opposite the lower point of the Island of the Bald prarie where we

encamped.

[Clark, July 17, 1804]

July 17th Tuesday, we concluded to lay by today to fix the Longitude,

and get the Cronometer right, (She run down Day before yesterday),

Several men out hunting to day Capt. Lewis rode out to Neesh-nahba-to

na Creek which passes thro. the Prarie (on which there is Some few

trees) within ____ Mile of the Missoureis, wind from the S E. Several

of the party have tumers of different Kinds Some of which is verry

troublesom and dificuilty to cure. I took a meridian altitude (43° 27')

which made the Lattitude of this place 40° 27' 6" 4/10 North.--(The Ball

Hills bear N 25° W for 30 mes. The bend on L. S. passing the Isd. on the

right Side is N. 28° W. 4 ms.) Took equal altitudes Tried a part of the

comn pt. of the Current in 40 Seconds the water run 50 fathem 30" & 20"

in places

Cap Lewers returned, Saw Some hand Som Countrey, the Creek near the

high land is rapid and nearly as muddy as the river, & rising Gutrich

caught two verry fat Cat fish G Drewyer Killed 3 Deer, & R Fields one,

a puff of wind brought Swarms of Misquitors, which disapeared in two

hours, blown off by a Continuation of the Same brees.

[Clark, July 17, 1804]

Bald Pated Prarie July 17th, Tuesday 1804 We Concluded lay by at this

place to day to fix the Lattitude & Longitude of this place to Correct

the cromometer run down Sunday) Several men out by day light hunting

Capt. Lewis Concid. to ride out to Neesh-nah-ba-to-na Creek which

passes under the ball hills near this place and at one place a little

above this Camp is within 300 yards of the Missouris on this Creek

grows Some few trees of oake walnut & mulberry. I took Meridian

altitude of sun L. L. (43° 27') which made the Lattitude 40° 27' 5" 4/10

North--wind from the South E. Several of the party much aflicted with

turners of different Kinds, Som of which is verry troublesom and

dificuelt to cure. Capt. Louis returned in the evening. he Saw Som hand

Some Countrey & Says that the aforesaid Creek is rapid muddey and

running--This Creek which is at 10 or 12 from its mouth, within 300 yds

of the river is at least 16 foot Lower than the river--The high Lands

from our Camp in this Bald Pated Prarie bears N 25° W. up the R.

The Common Current taken with a Log runs 50 fathen in 40"Some places

much Swifter in 30" and even 20 Seconds of time--five Deer killed to day

[Clark, July 18, 1804]

July 18th Wednesday a fair morning the river falling fast, Set out at

Sunrise under a gentle Breeze from S. E by S. at 3 miles passed the

head of the Island on L. S. called by the French Chauve or bald pate

(1) opsd. the middle of this Island the Creek on L. S. is within 300

yds. of the river. back of this Island the lower point of (2) another

Island in the bend to the L. S. passed large Sand bar making out from

each point with many channels passing through them, "Current runs 50

fathm. in 41 Seconds" but little timber on either Side of the river,

except the Isds. & points which are low wet & Covered with lofty trees,

Cotton wood Mulberry Elm &c. &c. passed the head of a long Island in

high water at this time no water passes thro the Channel (3) opposit

the Lower point of a Island on the L. S. pass the Island and opsd. the

point (4) above & on the L. S. the hills come to the river, This Hill

has Sliped into the river for about 3/4 of a mile, and leaves a Bluff

of considerable hight back of it this Hill is about 200 foot high

compsd. of Sand Stone inter mingled with Iron ore of an inferior

quallity on a bed of Soft Slate Stone.

We passed a verry bad Sand bar (4) a little above the hill and incmpd

on the L. S. opposit a Small Island in the river, Saw a Dog this

evening appeared to be nearly Starved to death, he must have been left

by Some party of Hunters we gave him Some meet, he would not come near,

G Drewrer brought in 2 Deer this evening

[Clark, July 18, 1804]

July 18th Wednesday 1804 a fair morning the river falling fast Set out

this morning at Sun rise under a Gentle Breeze from the S. E. by S.

passing over the Prarie, at about 3 Miles we passed the head of the

Island L. S. Called by the French Chaube or Bald pate opposit the

middle of (1) This Island the Creek on the S. S. is nearest the river,

In high water an Island is formed in the bind above the last (2)-

Measured the Current and found that in forty one Seconds it run yo

fathoms but little timber is to be Seen except in the Low points on

Islands & on Creeks, the Groth of timber is generally cotton Mulberry

Elm Sycomore &c &c. passed a Island on the 2d point to the S. S.

opposite the water (3) whin high passes out in the Plain oppsid this

Island on the L. S. the hills jut to the river (4) this Hill has Sliped

from the top which forms a Bluff above & 200 foot above the water,

about 3/4 of a mile in length & about 200 feet in Depth has Sliped into

the river it is Composed of Sand Stone intermixed with an indiffert.

Iron ore near the bottom or next to the water is a Soft Slate Stone,

Som pebble is also intermixt, we passed a verry bad Sand bar and

incamped on the L. S. at the lower point of the oven Islands & opposit

the Prarie Calld. by the french Four le Tourtue Saw a Dog nearly

Starved on the bank, gave him Som meet, he would not follow, our

hunters killed 2 Deer to day

[Clark, July 19, 1804]

July 19th after breakfast which was on a rosted Ribs of a Deer a little

and a little Coffee I walked on Shore intending only to Keep up with

the Boat, Soon after I got on Shore, Saw Some fresh elk Sign, which I

was induced to prosue those animals by their track to the hills after

assending and passing thro a narrow Strip of wood Land, Came Suddenly

into an open and bound less Prarie, I Say bound less because I could

not See the extent of the plain in any Derection, the timber appeared

to be confined to the River Creeks & Small branches, this Prarie was

Covered with grass about 18 Inches or 2 feat high and contained little

of any thing else, except as before mentioned on the River Creeks &c,

This prospect was So Sudden & entertaining that I forgot the object of

my prosute and turned my attention to the Variety which presented

themselves to my view after continueing on this rise for Some minits, I

deturmined to make my course to a line of woods to S. E. I found in

this wood a butifull Streem of running water, in prosuing it down

Several others Joined it and at 3 miles fell into the river between 2

clifts, I went up & under one clift of dark rich Clay for 1/2 me. above

this a Clay bank which had Sliped in here I found Sand Stone Containing

Iron ore, this ore appears to be inbeded under the Clay just above the

water

[Clark, July 19, 1804]

July 19th Thursday 1804

Set out early pass between 2 Islands one in mid. & the other L. S.

opsd. wher Prarie aproaches the river S. S. This place is called the

Bakers oven or in french Four le Tour tere passd. Some highlands 41/2

ms. above the Isds. on the L. S. forming a Clift to the river of yellow

earth, on the top a Prarie, passd. many a bad Sand bar in this

distance, & the river wide & Shallow, above this Clift 2 Small

butiffull runs Come from the Plains & fall into the river, a Deer lick

on the first, above those two Creeks, I found in my walk on Shore Some

ore in a bank which had Sliped in to the river 3/4 me. above the

Creeks, I took a cerequite around & found that those two runs mentioned

contained a good proposion of wood Surrounded by a plain, with grass

about 18 Inchs. high, (Capt Lewis walked on Shore after Dinner) in the

first bind to the right above those Runs passed a Small Island opsd. is

a Sand bar I call this Island Butter Island, as at this place we mad

use of the last of our butter, as we approach this Great River Platt

the Sand bars are much more noumerous than they were, and the quick &

roleing Sands much more danjerous, where the Praries aproach the river

it is verry wide, the banks of those Plains being much easier to

undermine and fall than the wood land passed (4) a willow Island

Situated near the middle of the river, a Sand bar on the S. S. and a

Deep bend to the L S. camped on the right Side of the Willow Island-W.

Bratten hunting on the L. S Swam to the Island. Hunters Drewyer killed

2 Deer, Saw great numbers of young gees. The river Still falling a

little Sand bars thick always in view.

[Clark, July 19, 1804]

July 19th, Thursday 1804

Set out early passed between two Small Islands, one in the middle of

the river, the other Close on the L S. opposit a prarie S. S. Called

(1) by the french Four le tourtre, The Bakers oven Islands, passed (2)

Some high Clift 41/2 miles above the Islands on the L. S. of yellow

earth passed Several Sand bars that were wide and at one place verry

Shallow (two Small butifull runs falls into the river near each other

at this Clift, a Deer Lick 200 yards up the Lowest of those runs) Those

runs head at no great distance in the plains and pass thro of timber to

the river. In my walk on Shore I found Some ore in the bank above those

runs which I take to be Iron ore (3) at this place the Side of the hill

has Sliped about half way into the river for 3/4 of a Mile forming a

Clift from the top of the hill above. In the first bend to the right

passed a Small Island a Sand bar opposit,--worthey of remark as we

approach this great River Plate the Sand bars much more numerous and

the quick or moveing Sands much worst than they were below at the

places where Praries approach the river it is verry wide those places

being much easier to wash & under Mine than the wood Land's. (4) passed

a Willow Isd. Situated near the Middle of the river and a large Sand

makeing out from the S. S. a Deep bend to the L S. we Camped at the

head of this Island on the Starboard Side of it, Hunters Killed Two

Deer. Saw great numbers of young Gees River falling a little.

[Clark, July 20, 1804]

July 20th Friday 1804, a fog this morning and verry Cool George Drewyer

Sick proceed on over a Sand bar, Bratten Swam the river to get his gun

& Clothes left last night psd a large willow Isd. on the L. S. (1)

passed the mouth of l'Eau que pleure the English of which is the water

which Cry's this Creek is about 20 yards wide falls into the river

above a Gift of brown Clay L. S. opposit a willow Island, at this Creek

I went on Shore took R Fields with me and went up this Creek Several

miles & crossed thro the plains to the river above with the view of

finding Elk, we walked all day through those praries without Seeing

any, I killed an emence large yellow Wolf-The Countrey throu which we

walked after leaveing the Creek was good land covered with Grass

interspersed with Groves & Scattering timber near and about the heads

of Branches one of them without Suckcess, Camped above the bar on the

L. S. a verry agreeable Breeze all night Serjt. Pryor & Jo. Fields

brought in two Deer river Still falling. a large Spring 3/4 me. below

camp

[Clark, July 20, 1804]

July 20th, Friday 1804

a cool morning passed a large willow Island (1) on the S. S. and the

mouth of Creek about 25 yds. wide on the L. S. Called by the french

l'Eue-que pleure, or the the Water Which Cry's this Creek falls into

the river above a Clift of brown Clay opposit the Willow Island, I went

out above the mouth of this Creek and walked the greater part of the

day thro Plains interspesed with Small Groves of Timber on the branches

and Some Scattering trees about the heads of the runs, I Killed a Verry

large yellow wolf, The Soil of Those Praries appears rich but much

Parched with the frequent fires-" after I returned to the Boat we

proceeded around a large Sand bar makeing out from the L. S. opsd. a

fountain of water comeing out of a hill L. S. and affording water

Suffient to turn a mill

The Praries as far as I was out appeared to be well watered, with Small

Streems of running water Serjt. Pryor & Jo. Fields brought in two Deer

this evening--a verry Pleasent Breeze from the N. W. all night--river

falling a little, It is wothey of observation to mention that our party

has been much healthier on the Voyage than parties of the Same Number

is in any other Situation Turners have been troublesom to them all

From this evenings incampment a man may walk to the Pane Village on the

S bank of the Platt River in two days, and to the Otteaus in one day

all those Indians are Situated on the South bank of the Plate River, as

those Indians are now out in the praries following & Hunting the

buffalow, I fear we will not See them.

[Lewis, July 21, 1804]

July 21, 1804

by a boiling motion or ebolition of it's waters occasioned no doubt by

the roling and irregular motion of the sand of which its bed is

entirely composed. the particles of this sand being remarkably small

and light it is easily boied up and is hurried by this impetuous

torrent in large masses from place to place in with irristable forse,

collecting and forming sandbars in the course of a few hours which as

suddingly disapated to form others and give place perhaps to the

deepest channel of the river. where it enters the Missouri it's

superior force changes and directs the courant of that river against

it's northern bank where it is compressed within a channel less than

one third of the width it had just before occupyed. it dose not furnish

the missouri with it's colouring matter as has been asserted by some,

but it throws into it immence quantities of sand and gives a celerity

to it's courant of which it abates but little untill it's junction with

the Mississippy. the water of this river is turbid at all seasons of

the year but is by no means as much so as that of the Missourie. The

sediment it deposits, consists of very fine particles of white sand

while that of the Missoury is composed principally of a dark rich

loam-in much greater quantity

21st July from the experiments and observations we were enabled to make

with rispect to the comparative velocities of the courants of the

rivers Mississippi Missouri and Plat it results that a vessel will

float in the Mississippi below the entrance of the Missouri at the rate

of four miles an hour. in the Missouri from it's junction with the

Mississsippi to the entrance of the Osage river from 51/2 to 6 from

thence to the mouth of the Kanzas from 61/2 to 7. from thence to the

Platte 51/2 while the Plat is at least 8.--The Missouri above the

junction of the river plat is equal to about 31/2 miles an hour as far

as the mouth of the Chyenne where its courant still abates and becomes

equal to about three miles an hour from information it dose not

increase it's volocity for

[Clark, July 21, 1804]

July 21st Satturday, Set out verry early and a Gentle Breeze from the

S. E proceeded on very well, passed a (1) Willow Island L. S. opsd. a

bad Sand bar passed Some high land covered with Timber, in this Hill is

Semented rock & Limestone the water runs out and forms Several little

Islands in (2) high water on the S. S. a large Sand bar on the S. S.

above and opposit the wooded High Land, at about 7 oClock the wind

Seased and it Commenced raining passed many Sand bars opposit or in the

Mouth of the Great River Plate this river which is much more rapid than

the Missourie has thrown out imence quantities of Sand forming large

Sand Banks at its mouth and forced the Missourie Close under the S. S.

the Sands of this river Comes roleing down with the Current which is

Crowded with Sand bars and not 5 feet water at any place across its

mouth, the Rapidity of the Current of this river which is greater than

that of the Missourie, its width at the Mouth across the bars is about

3/4 of a mile, higher up I am told by one of the bowmen that he was 2

winters on this river above and that it does not rise 7 feet, but

Spreds over 3 miles at Some places, Capt Lewis & my Self went up Some

Distance & Crossed found it Shallow. This river does not rise over 6 or

7 feet

Proceeded on passed the mouth of Papillion or Butter fly Creek 3 miles

on the L. S. a large Sand bar opposit on that Side Camped above this

baron L. S. a great number of wolves about us all night R. Fields

killed a Deer hard wind N. W. cold

[Clark, July 21, 1804]

July 21st, Satturday 1804

Set out early under a gentle breeze from the S. E. proceeded on verry

well, passed (1) a willow Island on the L. S. opposit a bad Sand bar,

Some high lands covered with timber L. S in this hill is limestone &

Seminted rock of Shels &c. (2) in high water the opposit Side is cut

thro by Several Small Channels, forming Small Islands, a large Sand bar

opposit the Hill at 7 oClock the wind luled and it Commnc'd raining,

arrived at the lower Mouth of the Great River Platt at 10 oClock (about

3 ms. above the Hill of wood land, the Same range of High land Continus

within 3/4 of a mile of the mouth below) This Great river being much

more rapid than the Missourie forces its current against the opposit

Shore, The Current of This river Comes with great Velocity roleing its

Sands into the Missouri, filling up its Bend & Compelling it to

incroach on the S Shore--we found great dificuelty in passing around

the Sand at the mouth of this River Capt Lewis and My Self with 6 men

in a perogue went up this Great river Plate about 1 miles, found the

Current verry rapid roleing over Sands, passing through different

Channels none of them more than five or Six feet deep, about 600 yards

Wide at the mouth--I am told by one of our Party who wintered two

winters on This river that "it is much wider above, and does not rise

more than five or Six feet" Spreds verry and from its rapidity &

roleing Sands Cannot be navagated with Boats or Perogues--The Indians

pass this river in Skin Boats which is flat and will not turn over. The

Otteaus a Small nation reside on the South Side 10 Leagues up, the

Panies on the Same Side 5 Leagus higher up--about 10 Leagus up this

river on the S. Side a Small river Comes into the Platt Called Salt

River, "The waters So brackish that it Can't be Drank at Some Seasons"

above this river & on the North Side a Small river falls into the Platt

Called Elk River This river runs Parralal withe the Missouri--at 3

miles passed a Small river on the L. S. Called Papillion or Butterfly

C. 18 yds. wide a large Sand bar off the mouth, we proceeded on to get

to a good place to Camp and Delay a fiew days, passed around this Sand

bar and Came to for the night on the L. S. a verry hard wind from the

N. W. I went on Shore S. S. and proceeded up one mile thro high Bottom

land open a Great number of wolves about us this evening

[Clark, July 22, 1804]

July 22nd Sunday Set out verry early with a view of getting Some

timbered land & a good Situation to take equil altitudes in time

proceeded on nearly a North 15° W 7 ms. to a pt. S. S. opposit Some high

Lands on L. S. above the upper point of a long willow Island in the

middle of the river 6 Deer killed to Day we deturmined to Stay here 4

or 5 days to take & make obsvts. & refresh our men also to Send

Despatches back to govement--Wind hard N. W. Cold

[Clark, July 22, 1804]

22nd of July 1804

Completlly arranged our Camp, posted two Sentinals So as to Completely

guard the Camp, formd bowers for the min $cc. &. Course from R Plate N

15° W. 10 Ms.

[Clark, July 22, 1804]

July 22nd, Sunday 1804

Set out verry early with a view of Getting to Some Situation above in

time to take equal altitudes and take Observations, as well as one

Calculated to make our party Comfortabl in a Situation where they Could

recive the benifit of a Shade--passed a large Sand bar opposit a Small

river on the L. S. at 3 miles above Plate Called Papillion or Butterfly

Creek a Sand bar & an Willow Island opposit a Creek 9 ms. above the

Plate on the S. S. Called Mosquitos Creek Prarie on both Sides of the

river. Came too and formed a Camp on the S. S. above a Small Willow

Island, and opposit the first Hill which aproach the river on the L. S.

and covered with timbers of Oake Walnut Elm &c. &. This being a good

Situation and much nearer the Otteaus town than the Mouth of the Platt,

we concluded to delay at this place a fiew days and Send for Some of

the Chiefs of that nation to let them Know of the Change of Government,

The wishes of our Government to Cultivate friendship with them, the

Objects of our journy and to present them with a flag and Some Small

presents

Some of our Provisions in the French Perogue being wet it became

necessary to Dry them a fiew days--Wind hard from N W. five Deer Killed

to day--The river rise a little

[Lewis, July 22, 1804]

July 22nd 1804.

A summary discription of the apparatus employed in the following

observations; containing also some remarks on the manner in which they

have been employed, and the method observed in recording the

observations made with them.

1st--a brass Sextant of 10 Inches radius, graduated to 15 which by the

assistance of the nonius was devisible to 15"; and half of this sum by

means of the micrometer could readily be distinguished, therefore-7.5"

of an angle was perceptible with this instrument; she was also

furnished with three eye-pieces, consisting of a hollow tube and two

telescopes one of which last reversed the images of observed objects.

finding on experiment that the reversing telescope when employed as the

eye-piece gave me a more full and perfect image than either of the

others, I have most generally imployed it in all the observations made

with this instrument; when thus prepared I found from a series of

observations that the quantity of her index error was 8' 45"-; this sum

is therefore considered as the standing error of the instrument unless

otherwise expressly mentioned. the altitudes of all objects, observed

as well with this instrument as with the Octant were by means of a

reflecting surface; and those stated to have been taken with the

sextant are the degrees, minutes, &c shewn by the graduated limb of the

instrument at the time of observation and are of course the double

altitudes of the objects observed.

2ed--A common Octant of 14 Inches radius, graduated to 20', which by

means of the nonius was devisbile to 1', half of this sum, or 30" was

perceptible by means of a micrometer. this instrument was prepared for

both the fore and back observation; her error in the fore observation

is 2°+, & and in the back observtion 2° r 1' 40.3" + at the time of our

departure from the River Dubois untill the present moment, the sun's

altitude at noon has been too great to be reached with my sextant, for

this purpose I have therefore employed the Octant by the back

observation. the degrees ' & ", recorded for the sun's altitude by the

back observation express only the angle given by the graduated limb of

the instrument at the time of observation, and are the complyment of

the double Altitude of the sun's observed limb; if therefore the angle

recorded be taken from 180° the remainder will be the double altitude of

the observed object, or that which would be given by the fore

observation with a reflecting surface.

3rd--An Artificial Horizon on the construction recommended and

practiced by Mr. Andrw. Ellicott of Lancaster, Pensyla., in which water

is used as the reflecting surface; believing this artificial Horizon

liable to less error than any other in my possession, I have uniformly

used it when the object observed was sufficiently bright to reflect a

distinct immage; but as much light is lost by reflection from water I

found it inconvenient in most cases to take the altitude of the moon

with this horizon, and that of a star impracticable with any degree of

accuracy.

4th--An Artificial Horizon constructed in the manner recommended by Mr.

Patterson of Philadelphia; glass is here used as the reflecting

surface. this horizon consists of a glass plane with a single

reflecting surface, cemented to the flat side of the larger segment of

a wooden ball; adjusted by means of a sperit-level and a triangular

stand with a triangular mortice cut through it's center sufficiently

large to admit of the wooden ball partially; the stand rests on three

screws inserted near it's angles, which serve as feet for it to rest on

while they assist also in the adjustment. this horizon I have employed

in taking the altitude of the sun when his image he has been reather

too dull for a perfect reflection from water; I have used it generally

in taking the altitude of the moon, and in some cases of the stars

also; it gives the moon's image very perfectly, and when carefully

adjusted I consider it as liable to but little error.

5th--An Artificial Horizon formed of the index specula of a Sextant

cemented to a flat board; adjusted by means of a sperit level and the

triangular stand before discribed. as this glass reflects from both

surfaces it gives the images of all objects much more bright than

either of the other horizons; I have therefore most generally employed

it in observing the altitudes of stars

6th--A Chronometer; her ballance-wheel and escapement were on the most

improved construction. she rested on her back, in a small case prepared

for her, suspended by an universal joint. she was carefully wound up

every day at twelve oclock. Her rate of going as asscertained by a

series of observations made by myself for that purpose was found to be

15 Seconds and a 5 tenths of a second too slow in twenty four howers on

Mean Solar time. This is nearly the same result as that found by Mr.

Andrew Ellicott who was so obliging as to examine her rate of going for

the space of fourteen days, in the summer 1803. her rate of going as

ascertained by that gentleman was 15.6 s too slow M. T. in 24 h. and

that she went from 3 to 4 s. slower the last 12 h, than she did the

first 12 h. after being wound up.

at 12 OCk. on the 14th day of may 1804 (being the day on which the

detachment left the mouth of the River Dubois) the Chronometer was too

fast M. T. 6 m. 32 s. & 2/10.--This time-piece was regulated on

meantime, and the time entered in the following observations is that

shewn by her at the place of observation. the day is recconed on Civil

time, (i e) commencing at midnight.

7th--A Circumferentor, circle 6 Inches diameter, on the common

construction; by means of this instrument adjusted with the sperit

level, I have taken the magnetic azimuth of the sun and pole Star. It

has also been employed in taking the traverse of the river:--from the

courses thus obtained, together with the distances estimated from point

to point, the chart of the Missouri has been formed which now

accompanys these observations. the several points of observation are

marked with a cross of red ink, and numbered in such manner as to

correspond with the celestial observations made at those points

respectively.

[Clark, July 23, 1804]

Camp 10 Ms. above the river Plate Monday July the 23rd

a fair morning--Sent out a party of 5 men to look to timber for Ores

two other parties to hunt at 11 oClock Sent, G. Drewyer & Peter Crusett

1/2 Indn. to the Otteaus Village about 18 ms. West of our Camp, to

invite the Chiefs & principal men of that nation to come & talk with us

&. &., also the panic if they Should meet with any of that nation (also

on the S. Side of the Plate 30 ms. higher up) (at this Season of the

year all the Indians in this quater are in the Plains hunting the

Buffalow from Some Signs Seen by our hunter and the Praries being on

fire in the derection of the Village induce a belief that the Nation

have returned to get green Corn) raised a flag Staff put out Some

provisions which got wet in the french Perogue to Sun & Dry--I

commenced Coppying my map of the river to Send to the Presdt. of U S.

by the Return of a pty of Soldiers, from Illinois five Deer Killed--one

man a bad riseing on his left breast. Wind from the N. W.

[Clark, July 23, 1804]

Camp White Catfish 10 Miles above the Platt River

Monday the 23rd of July 1804

A fair morning Set a party to look for timber for Ores, two parties to

hunt. at 11 oClock Sent off George Drewyer & Peter Crousett with Some

tobacco to invite the Otteaus if at their town and Panies if they Saw

them to Come and talk with us at our Camp &c. &c. (at this Season the

Indians on this river are in the Praries Hunting the Buffalow but from

Some Signs of hunters near this place & the Plains being on fire near

their towns induce a belief that they this nation have returned to get

Some Green Corn or rosting Ears) raised a flag Staff Sund & Dryed our

provisions &c. I commence Coppying a map of the river below to Send to

the P. ____ U S five Deer Killed to day one man with a turner on his

breast, Prepared our Camp the men put their arms in order

Wind hard this afternoon from the N. W.

Equal altitudes taken at the White Catfish Camp, 10 miles above the

river Platt-

[Clark, July 24, 1804]

White Catfish Camp 24th of July Tuesday. a fair morning the wind rose

with the Sun & blows hard from the S. thos Southerley Breezes are dry

Cool & refreshing. the Northerley Breezes which is more frequent is

much Cooler, and moist, I continue my Drawing. Cap Lewis also ingaged

prepareing Som paper to Send back, one of the men cought a white

Catfish, the eyes Small, & Tale resembling that of a Dolfin.

[Clark, July 24, 1804]

White Catfish Camp 10 Ms. above Platt

24th, of July 1804 Tuesday a fair day the wind blows hard from the

South, the Breezes which are verry frequent on this part of the

Missouri is cool and refreshing. Several hunters out to day; but as the

game of all Kinds are Scarce only two Deer were brought in--I am much

engaged drawing off a map, Capt. Lewis also much engaged in prepareing

Papers to Send back by a pirogue--Which we intended to Send back from

the river Plate--observations at this place makes the Lattitude 41° 3'

19" North

This evening Guthrege Cought a white Catfish, its eyes Small & tale

much like that of a Dolfin

[Clark, July 25, 1804]

White Catfish Camp 25th of July Wednesday. Several hunters Sent out. at

2 oClock the Two men Sent to the Otteaz Village returned and informed

that no Indians were at the Town they Saw Some fresh Sign near that

place which they persued, but Could not find them, they having taken

precausions to Conceal the rout which they went out from the Villagethe

Inds. of the Missouries being at war with one & the other or other

Indians, move in large bodies and Sometimes the whole nation Continue

to Camp together on their hunting pls. Those men inform that they

passed thro a open Plain all the way to the Town a feiw Trees excepted

on the watercourses--they Cross the papillion or the Butterfly Creek

within a feiw miles of Camp and near the Village a handsm. river of 100

yards Wide Called the Corne de chearf or the Elkhorn, which mouths

below the Town in the Plate N. Side. Wind from the S. E. 2 Deer & a

Turkey Killed to Day Several Grous Seen in the Prarie

[Clark, July 25, 1804]

White Catfish Camp

25th of July Wednesday a fair morning Several hunters out today at 2

oClock Drewyer & Peter returned from the Otteaus Village; and informs

that no Indians were at their towns, They Saw Some fresh Signs of a

Small party but Could not find them. in their rout to the Towns (Which

is about 18 miles West) they passed thro a open Prarie Crossed

papillion or Butterfly Creek and a Small butifull river which run into

the Platt a little below the Town Called Corne de charf or Elk Horn

river this river is about 100 yards wide with Clear water & a gravely

Channel.--wind from the S. E two Deer Killed to day 1 Turkey Several

Grous Seen to day.

[Clark, July 26, 1804]

Whit Catfish Camp 26th of July Thursday. the wind blew Verry hard all

Day from the South with Clouds of Sand which incomoded me verry much in

my tent, and as I could not Draw in the Boat was obliged Combat with

the Misqutr. under a Shade in the woods-. I opened the Breast of a man

the discharge gave him ease &c. 5 beaver Caught near Camp-only 1 Deer

Killed to day. The Countrey back from Camp on the S. S. is a bottom of

about 5 ms. wide one half the Distn. timber, the other high bottom

Prarie, the opsd. Side a high Hill about 170 foot rock foundatio.

Timbered back & below. a Prarie

[Clark, July 26, 1804]

Catfish which is White Camp

26th of July Thursday 1804 the wind blustering and hard from the South

all day which blowed the Clouds of Sand in Such a manner that I could

not complete my pan in the tent, the Boat roled in Such a manner that I

could do nothing in that, I was Compessed to go to the woods and Combat

with the Musqutors, I opened the Turner of a man on the left breast,

which discharged half a point.

five Beever Cought near this Camp the flesh of which we made use of-

This evening we found verry pleasent--only one Deer Killed to day. The

Countrey back from Camp on the S. S. is a bottom of about five mile

wide, one half the distance wood & the ball. plain high & Dry. the

opposed Side a high Hill about 170 foot rock foundation, Covd. with

timber, back & below is a Plain.

[Lewis, July 27, 1804]

white Catfish Camp July 27th Friday,

Charged the Boat and Perogue after a Small Shower of rain, Completed

our ores & poles, Crossed over the two horses, with a View of their

going on the S W. Side of the Missouri and Set out at Half past 1

oClock proceeded on Verry well under a gentle Breeze. passed a high

Island of high wood land on the L. Side just above Camp, this Island is

formed by a pond Supplied by a great number of Springs from this hill,

this Pond has 2 out lets, & when the river is high the water passes

thro the pond, passed a Sand Island in the 2nd bend to the right.

Camped in a bend to the L. S. in Some wood, I took R. Fields & walked

on Shore & Killed a Deer, and did not get to the Boat untile after

night a butifull Breeze from the N W. this evening which would have

been verry agreeable, had the Misquiters been tolerably Pacifick, but

thy were rageing all night, Some about the Sise of house flais

[Clark, July 27, 1804]

White Catfish Camp 10 ms above Platt

27th of July Friday, a Small Shower of rain this morning, at 10 oClock

Commence Loading the Boat & perogue; had all the Ores Completely fixed;

Swam over the two remaining horses to the L. S. with the view of the

Hunters going on that Side, after Getting everry thing Complete, we Set

Sale under a gentle breeze from the South and proceeded on, passed a

Island (formd by a Pond fed by Springs) on the L. S. of high Land

Covered with timber, in the 2nd bend to the right a large Sand Island

in the river a high Prarie on the S. S.-. as we were Setting out to day

one man Killed a Buck & another Cut his Knee verry bad Camped in a Bend

to the L. Side in a Coops of Trees, a verry agreeable Breeze from the N

W. this evening. I Killed a Deer in the Prarie and found the Misquitors

So thick & troublesom that it was disagreeable and painfull to Continue

a moment Still.

I took one man R. Fields and walked on Shore with a View of examoning

Som mounds on the L. S. of the river--those mounds I found to be of

Deffirent hight Shape & Size, Some Composed of Sand Some earth & Sand,

the highest next to the river all of which covered about 200 acres of

land, in a circular form on the Side from the river a low bottom &

Small Pond. The Otteaus formerly lived here I did not get to the boat

untile after night.

[Clark, July 28, 1804]

July 28th Satturday Set out this morning early, the wind blou from the

N. W. by N. a Dark Smokey Morning, Some rain at 1 me. passed a Bluff on

the S. S. it being the first high land approachig the river above the

Nodaway, a Island and Creek S. S. just abov this creek I call Indian

Knob G. Drewyer Came with a Deer &informs he heard fireing to the S. W.

I walked on Shore on the S. S. found some good Prarie out from the S.

pt. The High Lands approach the river 1st bend to left The party on

Shore brought in a Missouri Indian who resides with the Otteauz, this

Indian & 2 others were Hunting in the Prarie their Camp is about 4

miles off. This Indian informs that his nation is in the Plains hunting

the Buffalow, the party with which he is encamped is about 20 familey

Hunting the Elk, we landed on S. S. below an Island

[Clark, July 28, 1804]

July the 28th, Satturday 1804

Set out this morning early, the wind from the N W. by N. a Dark Smokey

morning Some rain passed at 1 me. a Bluff on the S. S. the first high

land above the Nodaway aproaching the river on that Side a Island and

Creek 15 yds. wide on the S. S. above this Bluff, as this Creek has no

name call it Indian Knob Creek our party on Shore Came to the river and

informs that they heard fireing to the S W. below this High Land on the

S. S. the Aiawuay Indians formerly lived, The flank came in & informed

they heard two Guns to the S. W. the highland approaches in the 1st

bend to the left, we camped on the S. S. below the point of an Island,

G Drewyer brought in a Missourie Indian which he met with hunting in

the Prarie This Indian is one of the fiew remaining of that nation, &

lives with the Otteauz, his Camp about 4 miles from the river, he

informs that the great gangue of the nation were hunting the Buffalow

in the Plains. hs party was Small Consisting only of about 20 Lodges,

____ miles furthr a nother Camp where there was a french man, who lived

in the nation, This Indian appeard spritely, and appeared to make use

of the Same pronouncation of the Osarge, Calling a Chief Inca

July 29th SundayWe Sent one frenchman le Liberty & the Indian to the

Camp to envite the party to meet us at the next bend of High Land on

the L. S. a Dark morning wind from the W. N. W. rained all last night

Set out at 5 oClock &, proceeded on passed the Island, opposit this

Island on the S. S. the Creek called Indian Knob Creek which mouths

Several miles on a Direct line below, is within 20 feet of the Missouri

& about 5 feet higher

Cought three large Cat fish to day verry fat one of them nearly white

those Cat are So plenty that they may be Cought in any part of this

river but fiew fish of any other Kind.

(4) at the commencement of this course passed much fallen timber

apparently the ravages of a dreadful haricane which had passed

obliquely across the river from N. W. to S. E. about twelve months

since. many trees were broken off near the ground the trunks of which

were sound and four feet in diameter.

Willard lost his gun in Bowyers R. R. Fields Dive & brought it up All

the Wood Land on this part of the Missouries Appear to be Confined to

the Points & Islands.

Boyers River is provably 25 yds. Wide, Willard near loseing his Gun in

this river, two men Sick & Sevral with Boils, a Cold Day Wind from the

N W. Som rain the fore part of the Day.

[Clark, July 29, 1804]

July 29th Sunday 1804

Sent a french man la Liberty with the Indian to Otteaze Camp to invite

the Indians to meet us on the river above--a Dark rainey morning wind

from the W. N. W.--rained all the last night--Set out at 5 oClock

opposit the (1) Island, the bend to the right or S. S. is within 20

feet of Indian Knob Creek, the water of this Creek is 5 feet higher

than that of the River. passed the Isld. we Stoped to Dine under Some

high Trees near the high land on the L. S. in a fiew minits Cought

three verry large Catfish (3) one nearly white, Those fish are in great

plenty on the Sides of the river and verry fat, a quart of Oile Came

out of the Surpolous fat of one of these fish (4) above this high land

& on the S. S. passed much falling timber apparently the ravages of a

Dreadfull harican which had passed obliquely across the river from N.

W. to S E about twelve months Since, many trees were broken off near

the ground the trunks of which were Sound and four feet in Diameter,

(2) about 3/4 of a Me. above the Island on the S. S. a Creek corns in

Called Boyers R. this Creek is 25 yards wide, one man in attempting to

Cross this Creek on a log let his gun fall in, R. Fields Dived &

brought it up proceeded on to a Point on the S. S. and Camped.

[Clark, July 30, 1804]

July the 30th Monday Set out early & proceeded on West 33/4 mes. passd.

one pt. to the L. S and one to the S. S. to a Clear open Prarie on the

L. S. which is on a rise of about 70 feet higher than the bottom which

is also a prarie covered with high grass Plumbs Grape Vine & Hezel-both

forming a Bluff to the River, the Lower Prarie is above high water mark

at the foot of the riseing ground & below the High Bluff we came to in

a grove of timber and formed a Camp raised a flag Pole, and deturmind

to waite for the Ottu Indians--The white Horse which we found below

Died last night, after posting out the Guards &c. &. Sent out 4 men to

hunt I am ingaged in ____ and Drawing off my courses to accompany the

map Drawn at White Catfish Camp, Capt. Lewis and my Self walked in the

Prarie on the top of the Bluff and observed the most butifull prospects

imagionable, this Prarie is Covered with grass about 10 or 12 Inch

high, (Land rich) rises about 1/2 a mile back Something higher and is a

Plain as fur as Can be Seen, under those high Lands next the river is

butifull Bottom interspersed with Groves of timber, the River may be

Seen for a great Distance both above & below meandering thro the plains

between two ranges of High land which appear to be from 4 to 20 ms.

apart, each bend of the river forming a point which Contains tall

timber, principally Willow Cotton wood some Mulberry elm Sycamore &

ash. the groves Contain walnit coffeenut & Oake in addition & Hickory &

Lynn Jo. Fields Killed Brarow or as the Ponie call it Cho car tooch,

this animale burrows in the ground & feeds on Bugs and flesh

principally the little Dogs of the Prarie, also Something of Vegetable

Kind his Shape & Size is like that of a Beever, his head Mouth &c. is

like a Dog with its ears Cut off, his tale and hair like that of a

Ground hog Something longer and lighter, his interals like a Hogs, his

Skin thick & loose, white & hair Short under its belly, of the Species

of the Bear, and it has a white Streake from its nose to its Sholders,

the Toe nails of its fore feet which is large is 1 Inch and 3/4 qtr.

long and those of his hind feet which is much Smaller is 3/4 long. We

have this animale Skined and Stuffed. Short legs, raseing himself just

above the ground when in motion Jo & R. fields Killed Som Deer at a

Distance and Came in for a horse to bring them in, they have not

returned this evening, a gred number of Swans in a pond above L. S. to

our Camp. Serjt. Floyd verry unwell a bad Cold &c. Several men with

Boils, great qts. of Catfish G. D. Cought one Small Beever alive. Som

Turkey & Gees Killed to day. arms & all things in order. a fair

evining, and Cool.

[Clark, July 30, 1804]

July 30th Monday 1804

Set out this morning early proceeded on to a Clear open Prarie on the

L. S. on a rise of about 70 feet higher than the bottom which is also a

Prarie both forming Bluffs to the river of High Grass & Plumb bush

Grapes &c. and Situated above high water is a Small Grove of timber at

the foot of the Riseing Ground between those two priraries, and below

the Bluffs of the high Prarie we Came too and formed a Camp, intending

to waite the return of the french man & Indians--the white horse which

we found near the Kanzeis River, Died Last night

posted out our guard and Sent out 4 men, Captn. Lewis & went up the

Bank and walked a Short Distance in the high Prarie. this Prairie is

covered with Grass of 10 or 12 inches in hight. Soil of good quallity

&, Still further back at the Distance of about a mile the Countrey

rises about 80 or 90 feet higher, and is one Continual Plain as fur as

Can be Seen, from the Bluff on the 2d rise imediately above our Camp

the most butifull prospect of the River up & Down and the Countrey

opsd. prosented it Self which I ever beheld; The River meandering the

open and butifull Plains, interspursed with Groves of timber, and each

point Covered with Tall timber, Such as willow Cotton Sun Mulberry,

Elm, Sucamore, Lynn & ash (The Groves Contain Hickory, Walnut,

Coffeenut & Oake in addition)

Two ranges of High Land parrelel to each other and from 4 to 10 miles

Distant between which the river & its bottoms are Contained. (from 70

to 300 feet high)

Joseph Fields Killed and brought in an Anamale Called by the French

Brarow, and by the Ponies Cho car tooch this Anamale Burrows in the

Ground and feeds on Flesh, (Prarie Dogs), Bugs, & vigatables--"His

Shape & Size is like that of a Beaver, his head mouth &c. is like a

Dogs with Short Ears, his Tail and Hair like that of a Ground Hog, and

longer, and lighter. his Interals like the interals of a Hog," his Skin

thick and loose, his Belly is White and the Hair Short--a white Streek

from his nose to his Sholders.

The toe nails of his fore feet is one Inch & 3/4 long, & feet large;

the nails of his hind feet 3/4 of an Inch long, the hind feet Small and

toes Crooked, his legs are Short and when he Moves Just Suffcent to

raise his body above the Ground He is of the Bear Species. we hav his

Skin Stuffed

Jo. & R. Fields did not return this evening, Several men with Verry bad

Boils--Cat fish is Cought in any part of the river Turkeys Gees & a

Beaver Killed & Cought every thing in prime order men in high Spirits.

a fair Still evening Great no. misquitors this evening

[Lewis, July 30, 1804]

July the 30th

this day Joseph Fields killed a Braro as it is called by the French

engages. this is a singular anamal not common to any part of the United

States. it's weight is sixteen pounds.--it is a carniverous anamal. on

both sides of the upper jaw is fexed one long and sharp canine tooth.-

it's eye are small black and piercing.

[Clark, July 31, 1804]

July 31st Tuesday a fair Day 3 hunters out this morning G. Drewyer

Killed a verry fat Buck one Inch fat on the ribs Merdn. altd Latd. is 41°

18' 0" 5/10-North. R & Jo. Fields returned at 10 oClock the Killed 3

Deer, and lost the horses, Cought a Small Beever which is already taim,

Several men out hunting the horses without Sukcess, The Ottoes not yet

arrived, I complete the Copy of the Courses &c. &c. Musqueters verry

troubleson

[Clark, July 31, 1804]

July 31st, Tuesday a fair Day three Hunters out, Took meridian altitude

made the Lattd. 41° 18' 1" 5/10 N. R. & Jo. Fields returned to Camp They

Killed 3 Deer.--The Horses Strayed off last night. Drewyer Killed a

Buck one inch of fat on the ribs, R. & Jo. Fields returned without any

meet haveing been in persuit of the horses--The Indians not yet

arrived. Cought a young Beever alive which is already quit tame-.

Cought a Buffalow fish--The evening verry Cool, The Musqutors are yet

troublesom.-

[Clark, August 1, 1804]

August the 1st 1804 a fair morning, Sent out two men after the horses &

one back to examine if the Indians have been there, ____ Beever Cought

last night, the air is Cool and pleasing

Prepared the Pipe of Peace verry flashey. wind rose at 10 oClock and

blowed from the W. S. W. very pleasent all day Several men geathering

grapes &c. two men after the horses which Strayed the night before

last. those Praries produce the Blue Current Common in the U. S. the

Goose Berry Common in the U. S, two Kind of Honeysuckle, the Bush which

I have Seen in Kentucky, with a paile Pink flower, also one which grow

in Clusters about 4 or 5 feet high bearing a Short flour in clusters of

the like Colour. the leaves Single. 3 Deer & an Elk Killed to day. This

being my birth day I order'd a Saddle of fat Vennison, an Elk fleece &

a Bevertail to be cooked and a Desert of Cheries, Plumbs, Raspberries

Currents and grapes of a Supr. quallity. The Indians not yet arrived. a

Cool fine eveninge Musquetors verry troublesom, the Praries Contain

Cheres, Apple, Grapes, Currents, Rasp burry, Gooseberris Hastlenuts and

a great Variety of Plants & flours not Common to the U S. What a field

for a Botents and a natirless

[Clark, August 1, 1804]

August the 1st 1804 a fair morning Despatched two men after the horses

lost yesterday, one man back to the place from which the messinger was

Sent for the Ottoes to See if any Indians was or had been there Since

our deptr. he return'd and informed that no person had been there Sence

we left it. The Prarie which is Situated below our Camp is above the

high water leavel and rich Covered with Grass from 5 to 8 feet high

intersperced with Copse of Hazel, Plumbs, Currents (like those of the

U.S.) Rasberries & Grapes of Dift. Kinds. also produceing a Variety of

Plants and flowers not Common in the United States, two Kind of honey

Suckle one which grows to a kind of a Srub. Common about Harrods burgh

in Kentucky the other are not So large or tall and bears a flower in

Clusters Short and of a light Pink Colour, the leaves differ from any

of the othe Kind in as much as the Lieves are Distinkd & does not

Surround the Stalk as all the other Kind does one Elk and three Deer

Killed to day also two Beever Cought

The wind rose at 10 oClock from the W. S. W. and blew a Steedy and

agreeable Breeze all Day.

The Musqutors verry troublesom this evening in the bottoms.

Took equal altitudes to day and the azmuth with the Commencement of the

A.M.

[Clark, August 2, 1804]

August 2nd 1804 wind from the SE G. Drewery returned with the horses &

one Doe Elk the countrey thro which he passed is like what we See from

the Bluff above Camp three men out Hunting one Beaver caught this

morning.

at Sunset 6 chiefs and their warries of the Ottos, and Missoures, with

a french man by the name of Far fonge, we Shook hands and gave them

Some Tobacco & Provisions, they Sent us Water Millions Three verry

large & fat Bucks Killed to day the wind Continue hard from the S. E.-

the 4 qtr. of one Buck weigh'd 147 wt 11/2 Inch fat on the ribs

[Clark, August 2, 1804]

August 2nd Thursday 1804

A verry pleasent Breeze from the S. E. The Two men Drewyer & Colter

returned with the horses loaded with Elk, those horses they found about

12 miles in a Southerly Derection from Camp.

The Countrey thro which they passed is Similar to what we See from

Camp. one Beaver & a foot of Beaver caught in trap Cought this morning

at Sunset Mr. Fairfong and a pt. of Otteau & Missourie Nation Came to

Camp, among those Indians 6 were Chiefs, the principal Chiefs Capt.

Lewis & myself met those Indians & informed them we were glad to See

them, and would Speak to them tomorrow, Sent them Som rosted meat Pork

flour & meal, in return they Sent us Water millions. every man on his

Guard & ready for any thing Three fat Bucks Killed this evening the 4

qtrs. of one weighed 147 lbs.

[Lewis, August 2, 1804]

August 2ed 1804.

This day one of our Hunters brought me a white Heron. this bird as an

inhabitant of ponds and Marasses, and feeds upon tadpoles, frogs, small

fish &c--they are common to the Mississipi and the lower part of the

ohio River, (ie) as high as the falls of that river.

this bird weighed two lbs.--it's plumage is perfectly white and very

thin

F I.

from extremity of beak to the extremity of toe 4 71/4

from tipp to tip of wing on the back 4 11

it's beak is yellow pointed, flated crosswise and 5 Inches in length

from the upper region of the bill to the eye is one inch in length,

covered with a smoth yellow skin the plumage of the head projecting

towards the upper bill and coming to a point a an Inch beyond the eyes

on the center of the upper bill. The mouth opens to distance of the

eyes--The eye is full and projecting reather, it is 7/10 of half an

inch. four joints in the wing

Inches

1st joint from body in length 6

2ed Do. 81/4

3rd Do. 31/2

4th Do. 1

1st joint Number of feathers 7 Length of 3

2nd 18 6

3 6 from 10 to 12

4th 5 12

it's legs are black--the neck and beak occupy 1/2 it's length. it has

four toes on a foot--the outer toe on the right foot is from the

joining of the leg to extremity of toe nale 4 Inch & 1/4 has four

joints exclusive of the nail joint--the next is 43/4 inches has three

joints exclusive of the nale joint. the next is 33/4 and has two

joints, the heel toe has one joint only and is 3 Inches in length. the

nails are long sharp and black--the eye is of a deep seagreen colour,

with a circle of of pale yellow around the sight forming a border to

the outer part of the eye of about half the width of the whole eye. the

tale has 12 feathers of six inches in length.--the wings when folded

are the same length with the tale.

has 2 remarkable tufts of long feathers on each side joining the body

at the upper joint of the wing. these cover the feathers of the 1st

joint of the wings when they are over extended

[Clark, August 3, 1804]

August 3rd Friday prepare a Small preasent for those Indians and hold a

Councul Delivered a Speech & made 8 6 chief... gave a fiew preasents

and, a Smoke a Dram, Some Powder & Ball--the man we Sent not yet come

up, Those people express great Satisfaction at the Speech Delivered

they are no Oreters, big, open Counternances, ottoes large Missor Small

at 4 oClock Set out under a gentle Breeze from the S. E proceeded on N.

5° E 5 Ms. Passed a Pt. on the S. S. and round a large Sand bar on the L.

S. and Camped above, below a great number of Snags quit across the

river, The Musquitors more numerous than I ever Saw them, all in

Spirrits, we had Some rough Convasation G. Dr. about boys.