George Rogers Clark March 2019

Participants in the 2018 Clark March

National Park Service

On February 23, 1779, George Rogers Clark's army continued their trek to Vincennes. Captain Bowman writes, "Set off to cross the plain called Horse-shoe Plain about four miles long, all covered with water breast high. Here we expected some of our brave men must certainly perish, having frozen in the night, and so long fasting." As treacherous as the day started, it ended with excitement as Bowman wrote, "The cannon played smartly. Not one of our men wounded, men in the fort badly wounded. Fine sport for the sons of Liberty." The siege of Fort Sackville had begun.

Exactly 240 years later, you are invited to take a modern version of the same trek. During past years, it has been tradition to walk just the final five miles of Clark's journey (starting at Sugar Camp). This option is available for those who would like it. However, those who want to commemorate the 240th anniversary of Clark's March by doing the full 12 miles have the opportunity this year.

If interested in the 12 mile march, participants should meet at the George Rogers Clark National Historical Park Visitor Center at 8:30 am on Saturday February 23, 2019. The bus will leave promptly at 8:45. To do the traditional five miles, participants are asked to meet at the visitor center by 10:30 and the buses will leave by 10:45.

The two groups will meet at Sugar Camp and will complete the walk together. It is expected that the group will arrive back at the park by 3 pm. At various points along the way, Ranger Jason Collins will point out important landmarks, and individuals portraying those who were on the march with Clark will share their experiences. Period clothing is encouraged, but not required.

To assist with planning, reservations are required by Saturday February 16. Please contact the visitor center at 812-882-1776 x. 1210 and let them know if you are attending and which walk you will be attending.

In addition, other programming will be taking place that weekend.

Friday February 22 at 6:30 pm - A presentation by Dr. David Nichols in the park auditorium. Dr. Nichols will be speaking on Francis Vigo and the important role he played in Clark's campaign.

Saturday February 23 at 5:00 pm - A "tour" of Fort Sackville will take place. Participants will have the opportunity to hear stories from the siege and surrender of the fort.

Monday February 25 at 11:00 am - Join us in the Clark Memorial Rotunda for the 240th anniversary celebration of Clark's capture of Fort Sackville.

12:00 pm - A luncheon sponsored by the Vincennes Historical and Antiquarian Society - speaker and location to be announced.