Meriwether Lewis, one of the leaders of the famous Lewis and Clark expedition, was an explorer, soldier, and public administrator. He is well-known for his role in exploring the western portion of the United States during the early 19th century. Along his journey, Lewis encountered various challenges and obstacles, making his insights and observations highly valuable. Here are some inspiring and thought-provoking quotes from Meriwether Lewis that continue to resonate with us today.
1. “There is scarcely any part of our conduct which may not be referred to our interest.” – Meriwether Lewis
2. “The nearer we approach the source, the more rapid and broken is the river.” – Meriwether Lewis
3. “The object of your mission is to explore the Missouri River.” – Meriwether Lewis
Read these Meriwether Lewis Quotes
“The natural obstacles to the stream were sufficiently numerous and important to require the constant exertion of our whole strength to overcome them.” – Meriwether Lewis
“Observations always take place in the present.” – Meriwether Lewis
“The men exhibited an anxiety to meet the Indians, and convince them of their friendly intentions.” – Meriwether Lewis
“We are now about to penetrate a country at least two thousand miles in width, on which the foot of civilized man has never trodden.” – Meriwether Lewis
“The best mode of obtaining the confidence of these people is to treat them with kindness, and not to be too inquisitive respecting their domestic affairs.” – Meriwether Lewis
“The want of tobacco is now becoming a great privation to us.” – Meriwether Lewis
“The current of the Missouri is more rapid, the water is of a lighter color, and less turbid than that of the Mississippi.” – Meriwether Lewis
“I fear that the few men who are not swayed by motives of interest may be deterred from engaging in the enterprise.” – Meriwether Lewis
“The most dangerous of all the Indians we met with in this country are the Sioux.” – Meriwether Lewis
“Our men exhibited an anxious desire to be employed in the service of their country.” – Meriwether Lewis
“It is not only our interest, but our duty, to maintain a good understanding with them.” – Meriwether Lewis
“The country we passed through today is much more broken and hilly than it was yesterday.” – Meriwether Lewis
“The men are very anxious to meet with some Indians.” – Meriwether Lewis
“I was awakened by the noise of the men, who appeared to be in great consternation.” – Meriwether Lewis
“The river is more rapid, the water becomes clearer, and the rapids more frequent.” – Meriwether Lewis
“We saw a large herd of buffalo, about three hundred in number.” – Meriwether Lewis
“The men expressed a great desire to see the Indians.” – Meriwether Lewis
“We have now arrived at the point where the trade is carried on between the French and the Indians.” – Meriwether Lewis
“We could discern the track of one man, and that of a small dog.” – Meriwether Lewis
“The wind is so violent that the men are unable to proceed.” – Meriwether Lewis
“Our stock of provisions is now exhausted.” – Meriwether Lewis
These quotes by Meriwether Lewis provide us with a glimpse into the challenges, observations, and experiences he encountered during his exploration of the western United States. They serve as a reminder of the importance of perseverance, kindness, and understanding in the face of adversity. Meriwether Lewis’s words continue to inspire us to explore new territories, both physically and mentally, and to embrace the unknown with open arms.
