Present-day memorials to the Lewis and Clark Expedition do more than honor the intrepid explorers—they also celebrate an unlikely hero whose loyalty and spirit continue to captivate audiences: Seaman, the Newfoundland dog. Across the United States, a diverse array of sculptures highlights Seaman’s indispensable role on the journey, inviting us to remember that every great adventure is built on the contributions of both human and animal companions.
In what follows, we explore several notable memorials that prominently feature Seaman alongside Lewis, Clark, and sometimes Sacagawea, illustrating how modern communities keep this remarkable legacy alive.
When Captain Meriwether Lewis selected Seaman for the expedition, he chose a breed renowned for its strength, swimming ability, and gentle nature. As the only animal to accompany the Corps of Discovery on the entire journey from the Mississippi River to the Pacific and back, Seaman’s contributions—ranging from foraging and water rescues to serving as a reassuring presence during long nights on watch—have earned him a lasting place in American lore. Memorials featuring Seaman remind us that history is enriched by the dedication of all who participate, whether on two legs or four.
Sculptural Landmarks in the Pacific Northwest
Sacagawea and Seaman at Cascade Locks, Oregon
In Cascade Locks, Oregon, history and art converge at the Cascade Locks Marine Park. Commissioned in 2010 by the Port of Cascade Locks and brought to life by local artist Heather Söderberg, two bronze sculptures stand at a roundabout adjacent to the Visitor’s Center. One figure depicts Sacagawea—ever determined and guiding—with her arm extended as if pointing the way forward. By her side, Seaman stands as a steadfast companion, his imposing Newfoundland form captured in bronze. This installation not only commemorates the challenges the expedition faced while navigating the rapids but also celebrates the cooperative spirit between humans and animals on the trail.
“End of the Trail” in Seaside, Oregon
Off the coast in Seaside, Oregon, the “End of the Trail” sculpture by Stanley Wanlass marks a symbolic terminus of the historic Lewis and Clark route. Installed in 1990, this bronze memorial features Meriwether Lewis, William Clark, and Seaman together, serving as a poignant reminder of the journey’s culmination and the enduring impact of the Corps of Discovery. This monument connects visitors with the physical and emotional landscape of early American exploration.
Captain Lewis and Seaman at Fort Lewis, Washington
At Joint Base Lewis–McChord (formerly Fort Lewis) near Lacey, Washington, a bronze memorial pays homage to Captain Lewis and his faithful Newfoundland companion. Commissioned as part of an effort to recognize the region’s deep military and exploratory heritage, this statue portrays Captain Lewis in a moment of quiet reflection with Seaman by his side. The memorial not only honors the historical figure who led one of America’s most important expeditions but also underscores the timeless bond between leader and loyal companion—a connection that continues to inspire both military personnel and visitors today.
Midwestern Memorials
Meriwether Lewis and Seaman at the National Quilt Museum, Paducah, Kentucky
At 215 Jefferson Street in Paducah, Kentucky, the National Quilt Museum’s grounds host a unique sculpture that bridges artistic tradition and frontier history. Sculptor George Lundeen created a piece featuring Meriwether Lewis and his beloved Newfoundland, Seaman. This work—set against the backdrop of a museum renowned for its celebration of fabric art—serves as a reminder that the legacy of the expedition is woven into the cultural fabric of the nation. (Historical accounts note that William Clark once owned the land on which the museum now stands.)
The Captain's Return Along the Mississippi in St. Louis
In St. Louis, Missouri, along the banks of the mighty Mississippi River, Harry Weber’s sculpture known as "The Captain’s Return" stands as a striking tribute to the explorers’ journey home. Positioned at Laclede’s Landing, this bronze monument not only captures the triumphant return of Lewis and Clark but also features Seaman as a symbol of unwavering loyalty. The piece, set against the flowing river and the historic urban landscape, invites passersby to reflect on the profound interplay between exploration, nature, and the enduring human (and canine) spirit.
The Corps of Discovery in Kansas City, Missouri
Kansas City’s public art scene proudly features the Corps of Discovery sculpture, a bronze ensemble created by Eugene Daub. This monument depicts key figures from the expedition—including Lewis, Clark, Sacagawea, York, and notably, Seaman. Positioned in West Terrace Park, the work captures the collaborative spirit of the journey and highlights how Seaman’s presence symbolized not only protection but also the very spirit of exploration.
Painted Statues in St. Charles, Missouri
In St. Charles, the memory of the expedition is interwoven into the town’s landscape through a series of painted statues of Seaman. Introduced during the city’s sesquicentennial celebrations, these artistic renderings of the Newfoundland dog add whimsy and accessibility to the historical narrative. Alongside larger-than-life bronze statues of Lewis and Clark that overlook the Missouri River, the Seaman dog statues remind locals and visitors alike that every member of the expedition—human or canine—played an essential role in forging the nation’s frontier legacy.
More Than a Memorial: Community and Continuity
These sculptures do more than document history—they engage communities in living history. In Washougal, for example, Seaman’s bronze likeness has become a focal point for cultural events, while in St. Charles, painted versions of the dog provide an accessible, playful take on a storied past. In Kansas City and Seaside, the monuments serve as educational touchstones that invite reflection on the challenges and triumphs of the expedition.
By incorporating Seaman into these memorials, modern artists and civic planners underscore a broader truth: the success of historic endeavors often rested on the diverse strengths of all participants. Seaman’s inclusion in these artworks reflects a growing appreciation for the unsung contributors to America’s journey of discovery.
A Legacy Carved in Bronze and Heart
As these sculptures continue to be maintained, restored, and even playfully updated by local communities, they remain a testament to a pivotal moment in American history. They remind us that every expedition, every journey into the unknown, is composed of countless stories—stories of bravery, loyalty, and the enduring bond between man and his best friend.
Through art, history comes alive in public spaces where citizens can gather, learn, and be inspired by the enduring spirit of exploration. In celebrating both the explorers and their faithful companion, these memorials ensure that the legacy of Lewis, Clark, and Seaman will continue to inspire generations to come.