George Drouillard: Hunter and Interpreter for Lewis and Clark

Skarsten provides a detailed biography of George Drouillard (spelled “Drewyer” in the journals), whom many historians consider the most capable and indispensable member of the Corps of Discovery after the two captains. Born to a French-Canadian father and a Shawnee mother, Drouillard possessed an extraordinary combination of wilderness skills: he was the expedition’s most productive hunter, an expert tracker, a skilled sign-language interpreter who could communicate with virtually any Plains or Plateau nation, and a reliable scout entrusted with the most dangerous reconnaissance missions. The article documents Drouillard’s critical contributions throughout the journey, including his role in the encounter with the Shoshone and his recovery of deserter Moses Reed. Skarsten also traces Drouillard’s post-expedition career in the fur trade, culminating in his death at the hands of Blackfeet warriors at the Three Forks of the Missouri in 1810.