Military Document
Lewis’s Requisition of Supplies from the U.S. Arsenal
Lewis's detailed lists of supplies, weapons, and equipment requisitioned from the Harper's Ferry Arsenal and other government stores for the expedition. These documents reveal the meticulous planning that went into outfitting the Corps of Discovery with firearms, ammunition, tools, scientific instruments, and trade goods for a multi-year journey into unknown territory.
The supply lists included 15 Model 1803 rifles from Harper’s Ferry, powder canisters, lead, flints, knives, tomahawks, and the expedition’s famous iron-framed boat. Lewis also procured scientific instruments including a chronometer, sextant, compass, and thermometers. Trade goods for Native nations included beads, mirrors, ribbons, paint, tobacco, and peace medals bearing Jefferson’s likeness. The total cost of supplies far exceeded the original $2,500 Congressional appropriation.
