Annual Report to the Community
2023 marked the 20th Anniversary of the Boat House and Museum. We continue to see momentum as we build for the future. Here’s a roundup of our 2023 and preview of 2024!
- Record-setting paid attendance
- Internships with docents
- Visits from VIPs
- Completion of a new classroom
- Major building enhancements
- Stellar reviews online
Connecting Lewis & Clark to the Community
We welcomed 25,670 museum visitors last year, from all 50 states and more than 40 countries, from tiny Andorra to distant Mongolia. We’re at the center of community celebrations, such as the Festival of the Little Hills and our 20th Anniversary Celebration, the destination for hundreds of paddlers in the MR-340, a regular partner with the St. Charles Convention and Visitors Bureau and destination for school groups, senior centers, and tour groups.
Bringing History to Life
Thanks to a grant from Americana Corner, we hired three part-time docents to interpret the history of St. Charles and the Expedition. Leah (Grinnell College), Christian (University of Missouri Graduate Student), and Megan (George Washington University grad), used displays from the Corps of Engineers and other items to share history with our visitors.
In May, we were delighted to take the Keelboat out on the Mighty Mississippi for crew training and equipment check out. The sight of the Keelboat underway was stirring and a wonderful milestone.
Gift Shop Goodness
Record-setting gift shop sales were a testament to new seasonal items such as custom Christmas ornaments and hoodies, locally sourced items such as stunning geodes and history books, and a remarkable assortment of educational and National Park-themed items. We hear often that people consider the gift shop a destination on its own!
New-found Newfoundland and Historic Boats
Inspired by donated prints from John Fisher, we created a display about Seaman: Lewis’ (other) remarkable companion. We added a second dugout canoe – originally from the Pacific Northwest – to round out our exhibits of watercraft. Our displays are funded thanks to a grant from the Lewis and Clark Trail Heritage Foundation from the Lewis & Clark Trail Stewardship Endowment: A National Council of the Lewis & Clark Expedition Bicentennial Legacy Project.
Home Sweet Home
We love our riverside location, but as early explorers knew well, the elements can be brutal. We battened down the hatches with window sealing, roof repairs, upgrading to energy-efficient lighting and most significantly, the creation of a new classroom thanks to the Lotsie & Rick Holton family.
Testimonials Galore
The Mayor of St. Charles proclaimed our 20th Anniversary July 1, 2023 as Lewis & Clark Boat House and Museum day, recognizing the museum as “a most welcome presence as a landmark on our historic waterfront.” But his remarks weren’t the only kudos. In November, we were named a “Travelers Choice” destination by Trip Advisor and in December, we earned honors from Yelp for being highly reviewed by visitors.
Help Us (Literally!) Build on an Amazing Foundation
With the 20th anniversary of the dedication of the Lewis & Clark Boat House and Museum, we are re-launching the Brick Dedication for the 2023 Anniversary Year. Now is your chance to make your mark on history and have your dedication seen by more than 25,000 people each year. Perfect for remembering loved ones, sharing your blessings or inspiring others, the bricks are being offered at special 2003 pricing!
All proceeds go toward the educational mission of the Discovery Expedition of St. Charles and the Lewis & Clark Boat House and Museum. Your donation may be tax-deductible. Visit polarengraving.com/discoveryexpeditionofstcharles
Be Part of History with the Discovery Expedition!
Calling history enthusiasts, riverfolk and adventurers – if you are interested in getting hands-on in telling history aboard and around our magnificent boats, we’d love to talk to you. We’re seeking volunteers to (literally) learn the ropes and dress the part as we get the boats onto the river and expand our educational mission. To get involved, call 636-947-3199 or email director@lewisandclarkboathouse.org.
Seeking: Pontoon Boat Trailer
We received a 1989 White River Sun Tracker 24 foot pontoon boat in 2023 but could REALLY use a trailer to help with hauling and storage. Got a lead? Drop us a line!
