What Next, William?

History tends to crystallize significant people at the moment of their greatest achievements. But how many of these achievements come at the end of a life? And so it is with William Clark, one half of "Lewis &" forever and ever more. But the Corps of Discovery's expedition was over by 1806, and Clark lived another 32 years. Did he sit around St. Louis for those three decades, dazzling people with his sense of direction? That's half true, at least. Producer/director James Scott's new documentary William Clark: The Further Journey, covers Clark's life post-Big Trip West, and reveals the William Clark who served his country as Brigadier General of the Louisiana Territory (a position he filled while headquartered here in St. Louis), fought in the War of 1812, served as governor of the pre-statehood Missouri Territory, and finished up his career in the Bureau of Indian Affairs. Clark also started two families with two wives, both of whom preceded him in death. William Clark: The Further Journey screens at 7 p.m. at the Missouri History Museum (Lindell Boulevard and DeBaliviere Avenue; 314-746-4599 or www.mohistory.org). Admission is free. Scott will be present to discuss the documentary, and Peyton "Bud" Clark, descendent of William, will also be on hand to answer questions and provide insight.
Thu., May 21, 2009