In a secret message to Congress dated January 18, 1803,
President Thomas Jefferson asked for $2,500 to explore lands west to the
Pacific. Jefferson worked closely with Lewis, co-commander of the expedition, to
ensure that he was well-prepared to anticipate the party's needs. While the
party ran out of such luxuries as whiskey, tobacco, and salt, they had plenty of
rifles, powder, paper, and ink. - Courtesy
of the US National Archives
List of Indian Presents Purchased by Meriwether Lewis in
Preparation for the Expedition to the West. Click
Here - Courtesy of the US National
Archives
Receipt for 130 Rolls of Pigtail Tobacco Purchased by
Meriwether Lewis for the Expedition to the West - Click
Here - Courtesy of the US National
Archives
Receipt for Wine and Kegs Purchased by Meriwether Lewis for
the Expedition to the West. -- Click
Here - Courtesy of the US National
Archives
