Sacajawea contributed to the Corps of Discovery by interpreting the Shoshone language, with her knowledge of native foods, and by way-finding throughout her homeland. Her presence in the group also affected how other Indian tribes viewed and approached the expedition—recognizing that it was not a war party since they were traveling with a woman and child.

The expedition was important to Sacajawea, because she was unexpectedly able to reunite with her people during the journey.  As a young girl, the Hidatsa Tribe took her away as a prisoner.

On August 17, 1805, she found her brother, Cameahwait, who became the chief of the Shoshone Tribe during her absence. She was unable to see her brother and family for years.

The Sacajawea Center is an interpretive, cultural, and educational centerfocused on the history of Sacajawea as a Shoshone guide and interpreter, and her role within the Corps of Discovery. Along with her husband, Toussaint Charbonneau, and her son, Jean-Baptiste Charbonneau, she joined the expedition and provided critical support to their westward journey to the Pacific Ocean.

The center focuses mainly on "the unique historical aspects of the expedition within Lemhi County, bring greater understanding and enlightenment of the Native American and Sacajawea’s people (the Agai’dika) to all the people of the world." Drop by for a taste of what life might have been like in 1805 when the Lewis and Clark expedition descended into the area. Other activities include the Kid's Garden program, Salmon Outdoor School of Discovery, and Summer Day camps.

Call (208) 756-1188, or visit http://www.sacajaweacenter.org/ for more information concerning operating hours, fees, directions, etc.

Credits and Sources:

Content for this Next Exit History site sponsored by the Lewis & Clark Trail Heritage Foundation. For more information visit http://lewisandclark.org/.

Clark, Ella E., and Margot Edmonds. Sacagawea of the Lewis and Clark Expedition. Berkeley, California: University of California Press, 1979.

Sacajawea Center. “Home.” Accessed August 27, 2014. http://www.sacajaweacenter.org/.

Lewis, Meriwether, William Clark, and Anthony Brandt. The Journals of Lewis and Clark. Washington, D.C.: National Geographic Adventure Classics, 2002.

Akta Lakota Museum and Cultural Center and St. Joseph's Indian School. “Home.” Accessed May 25, 2014.  http://aktalakota.stjo.org/site/PageServer?pagename=alm_homepage.