Lewis & Clark Heritage Days Festival – Elk Point, South Dakota
This living hisotry festival has received national recognition for its re-enactment of the Lewis & Clark election, (Following the death of Sgt. Charles Floyd, the captains needed a replacement. A vote was held on Aug. 22,
1804. Patrick Gass received 19 votes in what is believed to be the first election by U.S. citizens west of the Mississippi. A marker in downtown Elk Point relays the story.) along with a pre-1840′s style rendezvous, demonstrations of frontier skills, Native American dancers, buffalo supper and more in Elk Point, South Dakota.
The Lewis & Clark Expedition made camp in or near Elk Point on August 22, 1804.
On Aug. 30, 1804 the expedition had its first council with the Yankton Sioux. The explorers presented the Yanktons with gifts of tobacco, flags and medals. The Yanktons prepared a feast.
Directions: from I-29 South: Located approximately 60 miles due south
of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, Exit #18.
From I-29 North: Located approximately 15 miles northwest
of Sioux City, Iowa, Exit #15.
When: The re-enactment is held annually on Aug. 22. Heritage Days
takes place the weekend before.
Information: Call the event planners at (605) 356-3336