William Clark (1770-1838). Provision Return for forty three men... Manuscript document signed by William Clark ("Wm. Clark"), as Governor of Missouri Territory. St. Louis, [Missouri Territory], 29 April 1814. 1 page, 7 3/4 x 6 1/2 in. Docketed to verso. 

Provenance: Lot 56076, Heritage Auctions, 4 June 2008. 

A rare document signed by William Clark (1770-1838) while governor of the Missouri Territory. 

Clark's legacy and history is inextricably tied to that of his expedition partner,  Meriwether Lewis (1774-1809), even long after their famous 3-year journey into the West. 

Thomas Jefferson appointed Lewis as the Governor of the Missouri Territory in 1807, but he experienced extensive struggles that have been variously attributed to mounting debts, persistent depression, alcoholism, opiate abuse, and post-traumatic stress disorder. 

During these complications, Clark supported Lewis and often took on the gubernatorial responsibilities. Lewis died under mysterious and violent circumstances in 1809 -  considered a suicide by some, the evidence suggests, however, that he was possibly murdered. Upon his demise, Clark was offered the role of Governor, but declined. He would not accept until 1813, when the United States was engaged in the War of 1812.

Clark was deeply concerned about the British influence on Native Americans. In the spring of 1814, near contemporary to this document, Clark traveled to Prairie du Chien (in present-day Wisconsin) with United States troops and immediately ordered the construction of Fort Shelby.  

This document concerns the rations of a group of 43 men. Though their role or responsibilities are not outlined in the document, they may have been involved in the greater regional efforts taken by Clark to counter the British. 

The document is a receipt for Lt. Sullivan to provide men and supplies, reading in full: "Provision Return for forty three men under the command of Lt. Sullivan for one day Commanding and sending the 29th April. No. Men / 43 / No. days / 1 No. rations / 64 1/2 / The contractor will issue sixty four days complete rations agreeable to the above return."

[War of 1812, James Madison, Battle of Lake Erie, Battle of Plattsburgh, Fort McHenry, Battle of New Orleans, Treaty of Ghent, Andrew Jackson]  [Native Americans, Native American History, American Indian, Indian History]