BAD RIVER GATHERING
A Lewis & Clark Signature Event

September 24, 25 & 26, 2004 in Fort Pierre, South Dakota

On September 23, 1884, Captains Meriwether Lewis and William Clark and the Corps of Discovery made their first contact with members of the Lakota Nation, when three young boys swam the Missouri River to their evening campsite. For the next five days the two Nations parlayed at the mouth of the Bad River, in feasting, negotiations, and ultimately the armed stand-off which, but for the peace-making efforts of Chief Black Buffalo, might have ended the Expedition.Two hundred years later, the community of Fort Pierre, South Dakota and members of the Lakota Nation commemorated that first encounter with BAD RIVER GATHERING September 24-26, 2004 at the mouth of the Bad River.The Lakota Heritage Society presented a historical re-enactment and cultural heritage pageant featuring the famous encounter from the perspective of the Lakota people. Other highlights included Lakota living history exhibits at Fischers Lilly Park and two performances by Brule, acclaimed Native American music and dance group. There were a variety of vendors and activities for all ages at several locations, Fischers Lilly Park and the adjacent Fairgrounds and Expo Center.