To Make Some Salt: Lewis and Clark on the Oregon Coast

In 1979, the Society donated the site as an addition to Fort Clatsop National Memorial. The Seaside Lions Club maintains the Corps of Discovery Salt Works uner a contract with the federal government.

The fire-blackened stones are the only hallmarks of the time that Captain Clark's men made the salt that Captain Clark declared "excellent white and fine." Moreover, With the death of Jenny Michel, the last of the full-blooded Clatsop Indians disappeared, the Native Americans who had been so hospitable to the Corps of Discovery.

To reach the old Salt Works, drive on U.S. Highway 101 to the town of Seaside. Turn west on Avenue G and follow the green signs to South Beach Drive and Lewis & Clark Way.

Was ever such a fascinating memorial based on so little? There's just a few black rocks and some signs against the backdrop of river and ocean. That is only part of the scene however. In your mind's eye, you see a winter day in 1805-probably stormy with the high waves and tides common to that area of the Pacific Coast that time of the year.

At first, you see in your imagination just five men participating in the ancient ritual of making salt, though, in fact, one or two of the party would usually be off hunting game. Then, you move beyond the historical scene of your fancy.

You think of the tremendous bravery and spirit of adventure that led the Corps of Discovery to traverse over 2,000 miles of virtually unexplored territory(by those European ancestry at least). They faced and overcame mountains, rivers, waterfalls, unbelievably harsh terrain and weather at times, and-with much help from the Native American woman, Sacagawea-managed to get along with the natives.

Then, you remember the salt. . . common table salt. Once again, the humble substance played an exalted and most intriguing role in the history of a country.

The Salt Works at Seaside are a simple but inspiring tribute to the touching and most human needs of a group of gallant--often thoughtful--adventurers.

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