MHC - Changed Lives: Lewis and Clark Meet the West

The first round of programs in our Changed Lives project showed us how much there is to learn about the societies and communities that were affected by the sudden ability of the awkward new nation of the United States to become a world power. The expansion of territory converted the Lewis & Clark souting voyage into a national myth of Destiny in the 20th century. This is a story that is rich in opportunities to see th failiar from a different viewpoint.

In it's second phase, 2004-2005, Changed Lives: Lewis and Clark Meet the West will engage communities in Missouri, Kansas, Iowa, and Nebraska. In each of these states we will present a minimum of 10 mini-series (4 programs) each calendar year. Each site is within a day-trip's distance of the Missouri River. A Sign language interpreter will be present at each session.

The themes for these mini-series are:

"Where Diverse Communities Intersect: Lewis & Clark Interact with America"
Multiple perspectives on the Expedition's transformation of the American landscape, including local populations along the route as well as those who "discovered."

"Navigating Our Passages"
A template for the classic American story of confronting and overcoming challenges, along with the more practical matters of the Expedition including map-making, medical care, and cultural values.

CALENDAR
Lewis and Clark Events in Missouri now through 11/30:

Jefferson City, Stockton, El Dorado Springs, Boonville, Lexington, Fredericktown, Sullivan, Columbia
Lewis and Clark Events in Kansas
Lewis and Clark Events in Iowa
Lewis and Clark Events in Nebraska

LIST OF SCHOLARS & PRESENTATIONS

EXTRACT
from the Project Proposal (PDF file)

The project is made possible by a $300,000 grant from the Division of Public Programs at the National Endowment for the Humanities, and has been designated by the NEH as a "We, the People" project because of its emphasis on understanding the variety and richness of the traditions that make up our nation today. It was designed with many tribal advisors who have been included in each of the mini-series.

updated 9/6/05