The Wahkiakum County Eagle - Established as The Skamokawa Eagle in 1891

Lewis and Clark National Historical Park, Fort Clatsop has announced the next In Their Footsteps free speaker series event. John Colter’s Impact on American History by Christopher Hodges will be held Sunday, September 15, at 1:00 p.m.

Private John Colter was a principle hunter and guide for the Lewis and Clark Corps of Discovery. He was the only soldier in the permanent party to leave the expedition before its conclusion, and he returned to the west five more times. This presentation will include comparisons between Colter and another American explorer: Neil Armstrong, as well as a discussion about America’s enthusiasm for exploration.

Christopher B. Hodges is an author of historical fiction with a great curiosity regarding how common people become historical figures. Hodges’ insights into economic, political and social realities derive from his Ph.D. in applied economics and his experiences in business, government, and the clash of cultures. His writing leads readers to contemplate their own lives and their place in history. His 2017 novel, Colter’s West Wind, will be available for purchase at this event which will include a book-signing after the talk.

In Their Footsteps is a monthly Sunday forum sponsored by the Lewis & Clark National Park Association and the park. These programs are held in the Netul River Room of Fort Clatsop’s visitor center and are free of charge.

For more information, call the park at (503) 861-2471, or check out http://www.nps.gov/lewi, or Lewis and Clark National Historical Park on Facebook.