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Journal of the Lewis & Clark Expedition ~ Free eBook

Unless you are a student of history and the Lewis & Clark Expedition in particular, you may be unfamiliar with Patrick Gass. Yet, this Ohio resident was one of four members of the expedition that kept a journal. And his journal of the Lewis and Clark Expedition is in the public domain to download as a free eBook.

Patrick Gass was born in Pennsylvania in 1771. In 1803 he joined the Lewis and Clark Expedition (presumably as a carpenter). While on the journey, Mr. Gass kept a journal. However, as his education was limited, after returning he hired and worked with a school teacher to create his journal.

Apparently Meriweather Lewis objected to the printing of unauthorized accounts of the expedition. And yet, by the time the official account was published, Gass’s journal was in its seventh printing.

Gass’s journal includes events, descriptions, and opinions that are not included in the official journals. He recorded many details left out of other records. The book is very easy to read.

Monday 24th. Some snow fell this morning ; about 10 it cleared up, and the weather became pleasant. This evening we finished our fortification. Flour, dried apples, pepper and other articles were distributed in the different messes to enable them to celebrate Christmas in a proper and social manner.

Patrick Gass lived to the ripe age of 99, out-surviving all other members of the expedition.