Exhibits at Travelers’ Rest

Inside the Travelers’ Rest Visitor Center you’ll find permanent and traveling exhibits that tell the story of Lewis and Clark and the history of the area.

Lewis & Clark exhibits include archaeological finds from the Travelers’ Rest site, replica clothing and equipment from the Expedition, dioramas of the Travelers’ Rest campsite and the Expedition’s approach to Glade Creek, and historical firearms. A collection of modern and contemporary beadwork, musical instruments, and powwow regalia by diverse indigenous artists highlights the traditional crafts of Native Americans. Natural history displays include skulls and pelts of bear, beaver, and birds. Also on display is a running list of species sighted at Travelers’ Rest State Park in the current year.

Cabinet of Natural History – Opens April 5

This exhibit features the complete collection of vintage hand-colored stone lithographs that comprised the first such printed ensemble in the United States.  Thomas Doughty (1793 – 1856), a Philadelphia painter of the Hudson River School genre, turned his talents toward the publication of a monthly serial featuring avian and mammalian imagery that would appeal to American sportsmen.  Accompanying these beautiful prints were natural history commentaries, sundry sporting accounts, and travel narratives.  Lasting only from 1830 to 1833, the three volumes are rare, with the truncated third volume being exceedingly scarce.  The exhibit  contains all 54 printed colored lithographs. 

Corps of Diversity – Closes March 31

Each of the 33 men, one woman, one child, and one dog who camped at Travelers’ Rest in 1805 and 1806 contributed to the success of the Expedition. The staff and volunteers of Travelers’ Rest Connection and Travelers’ Rest State Park selected several individuals–and one dog–to highlight in this exhibition, celebrating the diversity of the Expedition. Artist Michael Haynes’ extraordinary portraits provide visitors with an opportunity to come face-to-face with these individuals and walk among the Corps at Travelers’ Rest. Corps of Diversity was funded in part by a grant approved by the Americana Corner Preserving America Grant Program.

Seasons of the Salish

This exhibit focuses on the Seasonal Round to show how the Séliš and Ql̓ispé people moved through the landscape to gather resources throughout the year. It includes several artifacts made in the tradition way including a cedar bark basket and Bitterroot digging stick. An update to this exhibit was completed in 2023 and was funded in part by the Lewis & Clark Trail Stewardship Endowment.

Trekker Kids Corner

Young visitors can use their senses to explore history in this exhibit designed just for them. Hands-on replicas and an interactive matching game encourage children to compare items used by Lewis & Clark to contemporary gear. Exhibit panels invite them to consider the sounds, smells, and tastes of the 19th century. Youngsters can try on coats, pack a bag, or curl up in a tipi to read a story.

Maker Space: A Look at Contemporary Moccasin Makers

Moccasins play critical cultural roles in many tribal nations and are usually important additions to a Native person’s traditional regalia. Some contemporary moccasin makers have learned their craft from older generations, while many others are self-taught. This exhibit takes a look at the materials, tools, and inspirations for today’s indigenous artisans who make and market moccasins.  It was organized by AmeriCorps Member Sabrina Short and Michaela Shifley, PhD. Click here to watch a video of Dr. Shifley’s talk The Language of Feet.