Lewis Inspects the Nearly Complete Keelboat

The keelboat was at last nearing completion. Lewis inspected the vessel — a 55-foot craft with a 32-foot mast, capable of being propelled by sail, oars, poles, or tow rope. The boat featured a cabin at the stern and could carry approximately 10 tons of cargo.

The keelboat would serve as the expedition’s primary vessel for the ascent of the Missouri River, carrying the bulk of supplies and serving as the floating headquarters of the Corps of Discovery.