From Lewis & Clark National Historical Park, Fort Clatsop, Astoria
January 1, 1806: With the fort finally built, Captains Lewis and Clark issued the Fort Clatsop Detachment Orders, establishing winter protocol for the entire garrison. Here’s a condensed look at the new regulations:
Daily Guard Duty
1 sergeant and 3 privates on guard, relieved at sunrise
A sentinel posted on the parade, free to patrol and watch for approaching parties
Relations & Security
All arrivals of Native groups must be reported immediately
The garrison is ordered to treat Native visitors with respect
At sunset, all non‑Corps members (unless specially permitted) are escorted out
Gates remain closed until sunrise; only the water gate may be used, and the sentinel must secure it after each passage
Daily Responsibilities
The sergeant of the guard keeps the meat house key, maintains fires, checks canoes daily, and reports each morning
The relieved guard must supply two loads of wood
No one is exempt from hauling meat; only cooks and interpreters are exempt from guard duty
Tools & Equipment
All public tools must be stored with the Commanding Officers and returned immediately after use—none kept overnight
Selling or trading tools, weapons, or ammunition is strictly forbidden and punishable
Exception: John Shields’ loaned tools
Photo of Captain’s William Clark Orderly book from the Missouri Historical Society collection.
For the full journal entry https://ow.ly/lPIe50XQLEO