Soldier and explorer (1770–1838) who, with Meriwether Lewis, undertook a two-year expedition in 1804 to discover a navigable route to the Pacific Ocean, in the process exploring and later describing much of the course along the Missouri River. Following the expedition, Clark resumed his military career, serving as agent for Indian affairs in St. Louis and leading a number of campaigns during the War of 1812. Manuscript DS, signed “Wm. Clark,” one page, 7.75 x 5, April 21, 1814. A receipt for military rations. In part, “Provisions return for fourteen men under the command of James Dawlin for two days commencing the 21st and ending the 22nd of April 1814.” In very good condition, with light intersecting folds (one lightly affecting three letters of the signature), scattered light spots of toning and staining, and light show-through from writing on the reverse.
During the War of 1812, Clark led several military campaigns, among them an 1814 campaign along the Mississippi River to the Prairie du Chien area, where he established short-lived Fort Shelby, the first post in what is now Wisconsin. The position was ultimately captured by the British, but not before Clark approved the aforementioned rations. Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and RRAuction COA.
