Lewis and Clark Bicentennial

Proclamation 7575 of June 28, 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 specimens, 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.

(Presidential Sig.)B