Lewis and Clark in Missouri

We have moved the content from the former Missouri Lewis and Clark Bicentenniel Commission Web site to the Missouri Department of Natural Resources Web site. Dated documentation has been archived but most all of the educational content is still online.

About the Commission

The Missouri Lewis and Clark Bicentennial Commission was charged with the mission to "Rekindle spirit of discovery, achievement fostered by original exploration." Pursuant to this task, the commission developed and coordinated an effective means for the State of Missouri to observe bicentennial commemoration of the Lewis and Clark Corps of Discovery. The Commission promoted the public awareness of the historical significance of the expedition related to the Missouri Territory. In addition, the bicentennial commission was a catalyst for accomplishing Missouri's Lewis and Clark Bicentennial capital improvement projects, programs and special events. The bicentennial projects and events were comprised of public (state, federal and local), private, and foundation projects.

The executive director of the commission also served as liaison between the other 14 states participating in the Lewis and Clark Bicentennial. The commission served as a statewide umbrella for bringing together Missouri's communities, the National Park Service and other federal agencies as well as private groups planning projects and events. The commission reported (formally) to the Governor in October of each year.

The commission was authorized by Executive Order 98-06, which was signed by Gov. Mel Carnahan. Executive Order 03-01, which was signed by Gov. Bob Holden, added three more agencies to the commission. The bi-partisan members PDF, appointed by the Governor, served a single term that expires at the conclusion of the commemoration in the fall of 2006.