Last updated: May 21, 2021
Place
William Clark Market House Museum
Quick Facts
Location:
Paducha, KY
MANAGED BY:
Amenities
7 listed
Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits, Information, Information - Ranger/Staff Member Present, Parking - Auto, Telephone, Trash/Litter Receptacles, Wheelchair Accessible
Lewis and Clark NHT Visitor Centers and Museums
This map shows a range of features associated with the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail, which commemorates the 1803-1806 Lewis and Clark Expedition. The trail spans a large portion of the North American continent, from the Ohio River in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, to the mouth of the Columbia River in Oregon and Washington. The trail is comprised of the historic route of the Lewis and Clark Expedition, an auto tour route, high potential historic sites (shown in black), visitor centers (shown in orange), and pivotal places (shown in green). These features can be selected on the map to reveal additional information. Also shown is a base map displaying state boundaries, cities, rivers, and highways. The map conveys how a significant area of the North American continent was traversed by the Lewis and Clark Expedition and indicates the many places where visitors can learn about their journey and experience the landscape through which they traveled.
The William Clark Market House Museum offers visitors a glimpse into the historical past of the town of Paducah, KY. The Corps of Discovery, led by Meriwether Lewis and William Clark, visited the area in 1803 where they contracted the services of Charles Drouillard, a half-Shawnee, half-French interpreter, hunter, and trapper who would be integral to their mission of westward exploration. As superintendent of Indian Affairs, William Clark returned to the area in 1827 and helped established the town. Some claim that Clark named the town for Native American Chief Paduke and his tribe, the Padouca (a sub-tribe of the Chickasaw). Paducah grew quickly due to its proximity to the Ohio and Tennessee Rivers and would serve as an important strategic location in the Civil War.
The museum is located in the historic building that once served as the public market of Paducah and is over one-hundred-years-old. Exhibits and articles are displayed throughout the town’s history from the year 1905. Included in the exhibits is a life-like statue of Henry Clay, an attorney and statesman for the Union, and the interiors of the List Drug Store which are nearly a century old. Visitors can indulge in the interactive timeline, observing the first settlers, the first show of the American Quilter’s Association, and everything in between. The Historical Archives Photo Gallery offers a glimpse into the lives of Paducah’s past residents. Guided group tours are available or wander at your own pace and immerse yourself in the rich history of Paducah.
For hours, information, newsletters, and special events, please visit https://markethousemuseum.com/.