U.S. House OKs bill to study extending Lewis and Clark trail

The bill to require the National Parks Service to study whether it is feasible or desirable to extend the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail from St. Louis through Southeast Missouri to the East Coast has been approved by the U.S. House of Representatiaves, U.S. Rep. Jo Ann Emerson reported.

Emerson, R-Mo., who is the sponsor of the Lewis and Clark provisions of the measure, said in a prepared statement that the bill would recognize places of historic significance on explorers path from the East to the mouth of the Missouri River at the beginning of their journey and on their way back to report on their expedition.

Meriwether Lewis was President Thomas Jefferson's personal secretary when he was directed in early 1803 to prepare for an exploration up the Missouri River to find a path to the Pacific Ocean, studying the land, making notes on its climate, animals and plants, and to open trade with the native tribes.

His preparation included trips to Philadelphia for instruction and supplies, as well as to Harpers Ferry national armory for weapons.

On the way to a camping spot in Illinois in 1803, Lewis and fellow expedition leader William Clark stopped at Cape Girardeau and met with Louis Lorimier, the founder of the town.

"This bill is about history right in our own backyard," Emerson said in her news release.

The extended trail, known as the Eastern Legacy Trail, would pass through 13 states.

"These sites should be recognized along with Lewis and Clark sites in other places," Emerson said.

The measure now needs approval from the U.S. Senate to become law. It also needs President Bush's signature.

rkeller@semissourian.com

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