Among the Mandans Summary and Analysis

Starting October 27, 1804, Clark gives descriptions of the Mandan villages and cultural characteristics of their inhabitants. He notes their houses are large and round and that they host many families. He meets with René Jussome, a Frenchman living among the Mandans; he gives them some important information about the locals and they use him as an interpreter. During the last days of October, the captains hold several councils and exchange gifts with the tribes. On November 2, Clark travels three miles down the river and decides on a proper place for the Corps' winter camp. The men start building the huts out of the cottonwood available and proceed to build the fortification for the winter.

On November 4th, they meet with Toussaint Charbonneau, a French Canadian fur trader living with the Mandans. He asks to be hired as an...