On September 20, 1806, after nearly two-and-a-half years spent exploring the Louisiana Purchase, William Clark wrote of the “great velocity” of their trip as they grew ever more eager to get home. They made 65 miles this day and found themselves in the little village of La Charrette, near present-day Washington and Marthasville. The captains were greeted by the French and Americans and then quickly secured beef, pork, and whiskey for the men to prepare for their final two-day journey to St. Louis the following day.

This post was contributed by Ross Malone. A historian and a retired school teacher, Ross has authored many books about Missouri’s history, weird facts, and folk tales. He has also written children’s historical fiction. Visit his website, and buy his books in the Missouri Life store.