For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
July 1, 2002
Lewis and Clark Bicentennial
By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation
Nearly 200 years ago, President Thomas Jefferson sent an expedition
westward to find and map a transcontinental water route to the Pacific
Ocean. With approval from the Congress, Captains Meriwether Lewis and
William Clark embarked on their legendary 3-year journey to explore the
uncharted West. The expedition included 33 permanent party members,
known as the Corps of Discovery.
Their effort to chart the area between the Missouri River and the
Pacific Coast set these courageous Americans on a remarkable scientific
voyage that changed our Nation. In successfully completing the
overland journey between the Missouri and Columbia River systems, they
opened the unknown West for future development. During their
exploration, Lewis and Clark collected plant and animal speci-mens,
studied Indian cultures, conducted diplomatic councils, established
trading relationships with tribes, and recorded weather data. To
accomplish their goals, the Corps of Discovery relied on the assistance
and guidance of Sakajawea, a Shoshone Indian woman.
As we approach the 200th anniversary of Lewis and Clark's
expedition, we commend their resourcefulness, determination, and
bravery. This Bicentennial should also serve to remind us of our
Nation's outstanding natural resources. Many of these treasures first
detailed by Lewis and Clark are available today for people to visit,
study, and enjoy. As the commemoration of this journey begins in 2003,
I encourage all Americans to celebrate the accomplishments of Lewis and
Clark and to recognize their contributions to our history.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States
of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution
and laws of the United States, do hereby designate 2003 through 2006 as
the Lewis and Clark Bicentennial. I ask all Americans to observe this
event with appropriate activities that honor the achievements of the
Lewis and Clark Expedition. I also direct Federal agencies to work in
cooperation with each other, States, tribes, communities, and the
National Council of the Lewis and Clark Bicentennial to promote
educational, cultural, and interpretive opportunities for citizens and
visitors to learn more about the natural, historical, and cultural
resources that are significant components of the Lewis and Clark
story.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-eighth
day of June, in the year of our Lord two thousand two, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and
twenty-sixth.
GEORGE W. BUSH
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