Corp Homecoming

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	Lewis and Clark Homecoming at Locust Grove Nov. 5th 2006

		Photos by Kathy Cummings and Melanie Kuntz

The Lewis & Clark Corp of Discovery began it’s exploration of the West in 1804. For two years it was not known if they were even alive. The heroes returned to a hearty welcome in St. Louis in the summer of 1806.

Word soon spread from Missouri across the young country that the explorers were alive and well. Following their official welcome in St. Louis, many of them headed for their own homes in Kentucky. William Clark was awaited anxiously by his brothers and sisters in Louisville for their own homecoming celebration. In November, Lewis and Clark along with Clark’s slave York stopped first at the cabin in Clarksville, Indiana to visit with William Clark’s brother - General George Rogers Clark. The following day the entire party traveled to Louisville to Locust Grove the home of Lucy Clark Croghan and her husband William.






		Nieces and nephews anxiously scanned the road for their arrival.


	William Croghan keeps busy with his writing while his wife Lucy checks the grounds to see that everything is ready.




					Eldest brother Jonathon keeps busy with guests in the parlor.



				In the kitchen at Locust Grove preparations are under way for a great feast.




			While a group of the nephews occupy their time on the porch.



		Excitement mounts for all the Clark family members.


	Finally word comes of the arrival and the now famous explorers William Clark and Merriwether Lewis arrive at Locust Grove on horseback.


	Following on horseback are Clark’s slave York and his brother General George Rogers Clark who greets the guests with a wave of his hat.

There is much rejoicing at Locust Grove, with speeches and music and children everywhere.


	As the family settles in for toasts and talk and feasting other members of the Corp busy themselves around the grounds - answering questions and preparing to move on to their own homes.