Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Chronology
YELLOWSTONE SINCE 1800
This chronology juxtaposes events relating to Yellowstone Park and this region with relevant
events from world and United States history. “A changing America has always had an impact
upon Yellowstone…” wrote historian Richard A. Bartlett. World events have likewise had their
impact on the park.
EXPLORATION OF YELLOWSTONE
YEAR
IN THE YELLOWSTONE REGION
IN THE U.S. OR THE WORLD
1803
Lewis and Clark recruit the Corps of
Discovery to explore Louisiana to the
Pacific, missing the Yellowstone area by
about 50 miles.
Pres. Thomas Jefferson buys Louisiana
from France.
1806-8
John Colter leaves Lewis and Clark and
explores Yellowstone area.
John Jacob Astor incorporates the
American Fur Company (1808).
1826-40
Fur trappers and adventurers visit and
tell about the wonders of the area, but
are usually not believed.
About 60 million bison (buffalo) roam
the Great Plains; Native Americans de-
pend on them.
Jim Bridger (1804-1881), capable guide, fur trapper, and storyteller, explored the area as early as the
1820s.
1832
Hot Springs in Arkansas is the first area
set aside for national conservation
(today a national park).
