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This project was made possible by a grant from Grizzly Riders International. The concept was by Dr. Harry W. Fritz, The Department of History, The University of Montana.

Realization on the map is by Joseph A. Mussulman.

Additional funding and support by The Bookstore at the University of Montana. Website Design by Spectral Fusion, 2003.

University of Montana students with Spectral Fusion Design developed this website. David Slote, UM Business Intern, coordinated the design efforts. It was made possible by a grant from Grizzly Riders International. This collaborative effort showcases UM students’ talents while providing superb educational material for Montana public schools, libraries, and the academic community.

A portion of the proceeds will go to the Mike & Maureen Mansfield Library at The University of Montana.

The Truth about Lewis & Clark

Harry W. Fritz

Department of History,
The University of Montana

The Bicentennial of the Lewis and Clark Expedition perpetuates many myths about the journey. To begin: Thomas Jefferson did not hire Meriwether Lewis to command the Expedition. The Expedition's goal, initially, was not to explore the Louisiana Territory , newly-purchased from France . Lewis and William Clark were not co-captains. Sacagawea was not a guide (she was even more important).

Most important: all segments of the Lewis and Clark trail were not equal. River travel, on the Missouri , Jefferson, Beaverhead, Clearwater , Snake, and Columbia Rivers was exciting, eventful, even dangerous. Winter at Fort Clatsop was dull, monotonous, boring-and scientifically productive. But the heart of the Expedition-its moment (months) of truth-lay in the Rocky Mountains . Crossing the Rockies exposed the Expedition to uncertainty, delay, danger, even failure. In the end, Lewis could boast of discovering "the shortest and most practicable route" across the continent. But he was wrong.