USA HISTORY

Detailed explanation-1: -York (1770–75 – after 1815) was an American explorer and historic figure, being the only African-American member of the Lewis and Clark Expedition; he participated in the entire exploration and made significant contributions to its success.

Detailed explanation-2: -In the late summer or early fall of 1809, York’s “misconduct” led to a falling out with his master. Clark removed him from his “privileged” status of body servant and he hired York out for at least a year to a Louisville farm owner by the name of Young.

Detailed explanation-3: -Clark eventually sent York back to the family estate in Kentucky to drive freight wagons. Sadly, by then York’s wife was forced to relocate with her owner to Mississippi, and it is likely he never saw her again. Ten years after the expedition, William Clark gave York his freedom.

Detailed explanation-4: -York: Terra Incognita-Lewis & Clark’s permanent memorial to York-honors a key member of the Corps of Discovery too long ignored by history. This powerful sculpture by the world-renowned artist Alison Saar helps Lewis & Clark College remember an enslaved man who was part of the Lewis and Clark Expedition.