Yesterday, we found our way to the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center and the reconstructed Fort Mandan, where they spent the winter of 1804-05. I don't want to go into detail, but let's just say that it was lucky the Corps of Discovery didn't depend on us to guide them where they were going. Anyway, we, like they, made it before winter set in. The interpretive center had an overview of the whole expedition with a focus on their experiences in this area. The winter gave them the time and opportunity to study one of the Native American cultures in some depth, as Jefferson had instructed.
The reproduction of the fort is estimated to be about ten miles east of where it actually stood, because the river itself has moved since then. But, the descriptions left by the explorers enabled them to feel very confident in the accuracy of design. Our tour guide was a retired newspaper editor from Georgia and did an excellent job.
The reproduction of the fort is estimated to be about ten miles east of where it actually stood, because the river itself has moved since then. But, the descriptions left by the explorers enabled them to feel very confident in the accuracy of design. Our tour guide was a retired newspaper editor from Georgia and did an excellent job.
Earlier, we had toured the Custer House here in the park where the Lt. Colonel and his wife spent the two years before his ill-fated trip to Little Big Horn. It was also a great tour with a very well informed guide.
After 86 degrees and sunny skies yesterday, it is somewhat of an adjustment today with strong winds, cloudy skies, and a high of about 60. We spent part of it at the laundromat in Mandan--probably not a highlight of the trip--and will warm our insides this evening with a Dutch oven of turkey stew.
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