I have been missing from blogland for about a month. The Hubster and I decided to live a little and take a road trip.
6738 miles worth of road trip according to our car’s odometer.
19 states not counting Washington (the place of origin).
We both love American history, and, since neither of us is a seasoned traveler, or an interstate truck driver, we decided to see as much of American history as we could in three weeks time.
I have been editing a bajillion photos, along with catching up on such things as yardwork and mail since coming home.
I still have a long way to go on photos, but I can share what I have with you.
The first stop, unplanned because we wanted to be flexible on our route, is the Missouri Headwaters State Park. We arrived on a lovely late afternoon after a full day of driving.
*Clicking on a photo will give you a closer look!
This is where Lewis and Clark stayed in 1805. The park encompasses the confluence of the Jefferson, Madison and Gallatin Rivers. Together, they merge to form the 2,300 mile Missouri River.
The Missouri Headwaters area was a geographical focal point important to early Native Americans, trappers, traders and settlers.
Lewis and Clark noted the area as being home to the Blackfeet Nation, as well as numerous grizzly bears. They also saw it as being of strategic importance to the United States government and recommended a fort be built along the river. It was at this location that the Hidatsa tribe captured Lewis and Clark’s native guide, Sacagewea.
The park is a beautiful and serene place in which to stretch your legs after driving all day!
Gallatin City was built by pioneers at the headwaters in Montana in 1862-63.
In 1864, President Lincoln declared Montana a Territory and Gallatin County, (one of nine Montana counties) named Gallatin City the county seat.
When Bozeman was voted the county seat in 1867 and the Northern Pacific Railroad was scheduled to by-pass Gallatin City, the town was gradually abandoned.
All that remains of the city is the frame of the hotel, shored up by beam supports.
I was aware of John Colter’s story, the first known mountain man, but he wasn’t ‘real’ to me until I came across this signboard at the headwaters.
So much better to be standing where he was standing to bring him alive to me.
Do you enjoy American history, or the history of your area? Do you get out and explore? I hope you do.
Keep smiling.
See the world around you!
