As you work your way though the exhibits at the Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center in Great Falls, MT you’ll come to a replica of a boat with a rope hanging out of it. The Center is designed to be interactive so it’s a great opportunity to “test your strength”.
I found out that if I was pulling this boat upstream, I’d be looking at the same stretch of riverbank for quite a while!
The Lewis & Clark expedition traveled UP the Missouri River on their way through present-day Montana in 1805. Even though they had several men pulling the boat it would have been an exhausting workout to make progress against the current.
The annual Lewis & Clark Festival was going on when we were at the Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center and the place was hopping. We watched several others trying to pull the boat, all having about the same luck as we did.
Next, we headed outside of the Center to the annual Lewis & Clark festival.
Members of the Lewis & Clark honor guard were in period dress and they were also assuming the persona of the expedition member they were representing.
We visited with Captain Meriwether Lewis as he explained map-making and how their celestial readings guided them on their journey. I’m sure I would have been lost!
We also talked about his clothing and learned many details about fabric, fibers, leather accessories and buttons.
The annual Lewis & Clark festival was truly a walk through history. And, what an interesting way to learn! It takes place in Great Falls the fourth weekend in June every year so mark your calendar now.