William Clark

1770–1838 (age 68)

Explorer, Military Officer

Photograph of William Clark

Biography

William Clark, born in 1770, co-led the Corps of Discovery across the western continent, mapping rivers and forging relationships with Indigenous nations while providing detailed knowledge of lands beyond the Mississippi.

He later served as governor of the Missouri Territory and for decades as superintendent of Indian Affairs, guiding new settlements with the same sense of duty that carried him westward; his grave at Bellefontaine Cemetery stands as a reminder of a life spent expanding the nation and serving its people.