Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center – Hartford, Illinois
The new center has over 14,000 square feet of exhibits, displays, artifacts, and multimedia renderings that emphasize the Corps’ preparations for the expedition.
The highlight of the Center is surely the magnificent 55-foot full-scale replica of the expedition’s keelboat. This cutaway replica allows the visitor to walk through the vessel to examine the supplies the Corps brought along and the manner in which they were stowed. Visitors can also view a stirring account of the expedition presented in a 12-minute film, “The Journey’s Edge.”
Camp River Dubois was the "point of departure" for the Lewis and Clark journey. The creation of Camp River Dubois began on December 12, 1803 and on May 14, 1804, the Expedition, under Clark’s command, left Camp River Dubois on the east side of the Mississippi River and sailed up the Missouri River, beginning their voyage of discovery.
These two sites will certainly wet your appetite for exploring the travels of Lewis and Clark.
Location: One Lewis and Clark Trail, Hartford, IL
Phone: (618) 251-5811
Hours: Hours: 10 am – 5 pm, Wednesday through Sunday
(Closed Mondays and Tuesdays)
What is the status of the observation tower that was being built in Hartford for the Lewis and Clark Bicentenial? Did it ever open? I know there were some budget problems.
As of April 13, 2009 this is the latest information:
When finished, the Lewis & Clark Confluence Tower will rise 180 feet with observations decks at 50, 100, and 150 feet that are accessible by both stairs and an elevator. These decks will provide visitors with a picturesque panorama of the confluence of the Missouri and Mississippi rivers to the West as well as a view of the industrial landscape that characterizes the region east of the rivers. In addition, the tower will serve as an interpretative center highlighting the past, present, and future of the Riverbend area.
When the site plan is completed, it will include a 350 seat amphitheater for public and private events, as well as bike access from the Confluence bike trail that tops the levee adjacent to the Tower site. This trail links the many attractions along the Great River Road.
I was there today (July 21, 2010) and the Confluence Towers is open, there were tour groups populating the 3 deck levels of rivers viewing. They are celebrating their Inaugural 2010 Summer Season.