Jefferson’s Third Library: Lewis & Clark and More

Thomas Jefferson’s interest in what we now call “science,” or by him natural history or natural philosophy, is in no better way illustrated than by his founding part in the Lewis and Clark Expedition of 1803-06. He was the driving force behind this exploration of largely unknown western lands [to European settlers in the east of North America]. The President assured that the exploration would be scientifically based and properly documented. He assured that Meriwether Lewis was a trained observer and preserver of plant specimens and live animals, making certain that these were transported back to the east for others to eye with wonder and study. This was not the usual sightseeing or commercially motivated trip. It was a scientific expedition first and foremost, at least and especially…