Captain William Clark Monument

Captain William Clark Monument Portland: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites Guide

Date: 15/06/2025

Introduction: History and Significance of the Captain William Clark Monument

The Captain William Clark Monument in Portland, Oregon, stands as a powerful testament to the legacy of William Clark and the renowned Lewis and Clark Expedition. This expedition (1804–1806) was pivotal in shaping the nation’s knowledge of the newly acquired Louisiana Territory and the Pacific Northwest. Today, the monument and associated heritage sites invite visitors to explore the intertwined narratives of exploration, indigenous relations, and Oregon’s diverse history.

Originally located on the University of Portland campus, the monument featured Clark, York (his enslaved African American companion), and a Native American figure, symbolizing the multicultural collaboration essential to the expedition’s success. Its removal in 2020 amid broader social reflection demonstrates ongoing discussions about historical memory, representation, and cultural interpretation.

Whether you are a family, history enthusiast, or cultural traveler, understanding the monument’s story and how to access related sites will enrich your Portland experience. This guide provides comprehensive information on visiting hours, accessibility, tickets, nearby attractions, and how to engage respectfully with the diverse narratives connected to the Lewis and Clark story. For further exploration, consult authoritative resources such as the National Park Service: William Clark and the Oregon Encyclopedia: Lewis and Clark Expedition.

Introduction
Overview and Location
Visiting Hours and Admission
Accessibility and Visitor Amenities
Guided Tours and Special Events
Historical Background
The Lewis and Clark Expedition and Oregon
Nearby Attractions in Portland
Visuals and Media
FAQs
Monument Removal and Current Status
Artistic Features and Symbolism
Planning Your Visit and Visitor Tips
Alternative Lewis and Clark and Portland Historical Attractions
Community Engagement and Accessibility
Integration with Regional Heritage Trails
Visitor Experience and Interpretation
Conclusion

Overview and Location

The Captain William Clark Monument once stood on the University of Portland campus, marking a key point in the Lewis and Clark Expedition’s exploration of the Willamette River Valley. Though the monument has been removed, the site remains central to Portland’s historical landscape, and the city offers several related sites commemorating the expedition’s legacy.

Nearby, the Lewis & Clark Memorial in Washington Park serves as a prominent and accessible alternative, with panoramic views and interpretive signage.

Visiting Hours and Admission

Monument Status: The original Captain William Clark Monument is not currently on public display; it was removed in 2020 and remains in storage.
Washington Park Lewis & Clark Memorial: Open daily from dawn to dusk.
Admission: Free at all related outdoor sites; no tickets required.

Accessibility and Visitor Amenities

Washington Park: Most trails and garden areas are wheelchair accessible. The Lewis & Clark Memorial itself is at the top of a stairway, but nearby park areas offer accessible paths.
Parking: Paid parking is available throughout Washington Park, including accessible spaces. Public transit options include TriMet bus routes.
University of Portland Campus: While the original monument is absent, older historical markers (from 1945 and 1948) remain accessible on paved paths. Contact the University of Portland Museum for details.

Guided Tours and Special Events

Local historical societies and the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail Association occasionally offer guided tours and educational programs at related sites.
Annual events commemorating the expedition’s milestones are sometimes held at Washington Park and Fort Clatsop.

Historical Background

The Captain William Clark Monument, also known as “Naming of Mt. Jefferson,” commemorated Clark’s 1806 journey through the Willamette Valley, when he named Mount Jefferson after President Thomas Jefferson (UP Beacon; Wikiwand). Its three-figure composition—Clark, York, and a member of the Cushook tribe—represented the expedition’s multicultural nature and the essential support of Indigenous and African American participants (Diverse Education).

The Lewis and Clark Expedition and Oregon

The Corps of Discovery entered the Columbia River Basin in 1805, wintering at Fort Clatsop near Astoria (Oregon Encyclopedia: Fort Clatsop). The explorers’ journey profoundly influenced Oregon’s development, with many local place names and landmarks reflecting their presence.

Nearby Attractions in Portland

Washington Park: Home to the Lewis & Clark Memorial, International Rose Test Garden, Portland Japanese Garden, and Oregon Zoo.
Oregon Historical Society Museum: Offers exhibits on state history and the Lewis and Clark Expedition.
Willamette River waterfront parks: Ideal for walking and cycling along historically significant routes.
Lewis & Clark College campus: Features commemorative art and additional interpretive materials.

Visuals and Media

View high-quality photographs and virtual tours on the official Portland tourism website and the University of Portland Museum.
Interactive maps and audio guides are available through the Audiala app.

Monument Removal and Current Status

In June 2020, amid nationwide calls for racial justice, the Captain William Clark Monument was removed from the University of Portland campus after vandalism and renewed scrutiny (OregonLive; The College Fix). The university cited concerns for safety and a desire to foster inclusive dialogue. The statues remain in storage with no announced plans for reinstallation.

Artistic Features and Symbolism

Clark: Shown pointing toward Mount Jefferson, journal in hand, symbolizing leadership and documentation.
York: Depicted as a supportive companion, highlighting the often-overlooked contributions of African Americans.
Cushook Tribe Member: Holding wapato, representing Indigenous guidance.
Plaque: Emphasized the three races’ contributions to the region’s first integrated society (OregonLive).

Alternative Lewis and Clark and Portland Historical Attractions

Lewis & Clark Memorial, Washington Park: A 34-foot granite monument dedicated in 1908, with bronze state seals and panoramic views.
Fort Clatsop National Historical Park (Astoria): Reconstructed fort, museum, and trails.
Captain William Clark Regional Park at Cottonwood Beach (WA): Interpretive signage and river access.
Historic Columbia River Highway Scenic Byway: Follows the expedition’s route with scenic viewpoints and interpretive stops.

Community Engagement and Accessibility

Many heritage sites offer accessible trails, interpretive panels, and digital resources.
Community events, educational programs, and living history demonstrations foster ongoing engagement with the expedition’s legacy (Oregon Hikers Field Guide).

Integration with Regional Heritage Trails

The monument and related sites are linked by the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail and the Discovery Trail, facilitating regional exploration of the expedition’s path from Portland to the Pacific (Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail).

Visitor Experience and Interpretation

Interpretive materials at these sites include Clark’s journal excerpts, artwork, and information on Indigenous cultures. Visitors are encouraged to reflect on the diverse expedition team and the enduring significance of cultural intersections in shaping the Pacific Northwest.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is the Captain William Clark Monument currently accessible?
A: No, the original monument is not on public display as of 2025.

Q: Where can I engage with Lewis and Clark history in Portland?
A: Visit the Lewis & Clark Memorial in Washington Park and the Oregon Historical Society Museum. Fort Clatsop is also highly recommended.

Q: Is there an admission fee?
A: No; outdoor monuments and most trails are free.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, through local historical organizations and the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail Association. Check online for current offerings.

Q: Is parking available?
A: Paid and accessible parking is available at Washington Park and Fort Clatsop.

Planning Your Visit and Tips

Dress for the Weather: Rain is frequent from October to May; dress in layers.
Accessibility: While some monuments involve stairs, many park areas and trails are accessible.
Public Transportation: TriMet buses serve Washington Park.
Engage Digitally: Use the Audiala app for audio guides, interactive maps, and real-time info.

Summary and Recommendations

Portland’s Lewis and Clark heritage sites—including the now-removed Captain William Clark Monument, the Lewis & Clark Memorial, and Fort Clatsop—offer deep insights into the region’s history of exploration, multicultural collaboration, and ongoing dialogue about representation. Visitors are encouraged to engage with these stories through self-guided tours, educational programs, and digital resources, fostering a balanced appreciation of Oregon’s complex past. Check official park and museum websites for the most up-to-date information (Lewis and Clark National Historical Park; University of Portland Museum).