By Rachael Higham

In celebration of Women’s History Month, we want to recognize Sacagawea, who had an undeniable impact on the Lewis and Clark Expedition. In the Lewis and Clark journals there are many accounts of her bravery, level-headedness, dedication, and resilience. She acted as a diplomat and translator, helped to dig roots and find food, and taught the men how to make leather clothes and moccasins. Her impact on our country transcends that of the expedition and can be seen in various ways.

During the suffrage movement, women used Sacagawea as an example of a woman voting. There are more statues of her in the USA than any other American woman, and her image was put on a dollar coin in 2000. On January 17, 2001, President Bill Clinton officially recognized her importance and named her an honorary sergeant, regular army.

Here are some of the places along the Lewis and Clark NHT that are dedicated to Sacagawea.

📍 Sacajawea Park in Livingston, MT

If you find yourself near Livingston Montana, make sure to stop by the Sacajawea Park located along the Yellowstone River. Spend time in the park meandering the scenic river walk, learning more about the expedition through the historical markers, or enjoying an afternoon picnic. For more information click here.

📍 Clark and Sacagawea Statue in Hysham, MT

In the small town of Hysham, Montana you can find a statue of Sacagawea, Clark, Jean Baptiste, and an unknown hunter. This tribute is made of wood and created by Bob Schulze, a local sculptor. Find out more about the sculpture and surrounding area on our website.

📍 Sacajawea Interpretive, Cultural, and Education Center in Salmon, ID

Consider visiting the Sacajawea Interpretive, Cultural, and Education Center located in Salmon, Idaho. The park is open year-round, and the interpretive center is open 7 days per week from Memorial Day through Labor Day. The goal of the Center is to celebrate the birthplace of Sacagawea as well as foster the knowledge and appreciation of the Agaidika Shoshone-Bannock Tribes.

Additionally, the Center aims to provide education about the Lewis and Clark Expedition, Western frontier life, and the natural environment. To learn more about the history or the center and to plan a visit, follow this link.

📍 Sacajawea Historic Park and Interpretive Center in Pasco, WA

If you are in the Pacific Northwest, then plan a visit to the Sacajawea Historic Park and Interpretive Center in Pasco, Washington. The day-use park is 267 acres located at the confluence of the Snake and Columbia River and is open
starting April 1st through October 31st.

In the interpretive center, learn more about the Lewis and Clark expedition through the eyes of Sacagawea. For more information follow the link.