Through the Eyes of York: The Lewis & Clark Story

Teaching Artist: Bobby Norfolk

York, William Clark’s slave, was the only African-American member of the “Corps of Discovery” — the official name of the band of courageous explorers whose epic journey across our continent became immortalized as the Lewis and Clark Expedition. The Plains Indians called York Big Medicine.  Despite his position as slave, York earned the respect and awe of many people, and gained unofficial recognition as a full-fledged member through his heroic efforts in the Corps of Discovery. Performed in historical costume, this one-man theatrical show explores York’s early life, and his struggle to be accepted as an equal on the expedition. Bobby brings to life exciting and dangerous adventures with stories of meeting the Plains Indians, hunting the grizzly bear, crossing the treacherous Bitterroot Mountains, and seeing the ocean for the first time! This is the amazing story of a man reared as a slave, treated as a free man, only to be returned to the bonds of slavery following the expedition. Also available for after school and virtual performances.

Audience: Grades 3-12
Format: Performance
Curriculum Connections: Social Studies/Culture, English/Language Arts
Teaching Artist: Bobby Norfolk

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