Continuous News

Clark Days (re)introduce another pioneer

Posted: Jul 29, 2012 6:42 PM by KTVQ - Dustin Klemann
Updated: Jul 29, 2012 6:50 PM

POMPEY'S PILLAR - Clark Days at the historic site of Pompey's Pillar marks the spot - and date - where Captain William Clark engraved his name on July 25, 1806 in the 150-foot sandstone butte.

But it also is the spot where John Blake, one of the first land surveyors in Montana, made his mark. All of this on the General Land Office's 200th anniversary.

The weekend allows visits to enjoy numerous activities and sights that the whole family can enjoy. Event organizers provide educational presentations and vendors provide the food. Ask anyone and you are bound to find someone who has enjoyed the famous recipe of Buffalo Burgers.

Although William Clark and the expedition is one of the most famous events in American history, Rob Nurre, event participant, informed visitors of John Blake's journey.

Nurre said, "There was this one time in history when we can document, because of the carvings in the rock. Which is just early graffiti. The expedition that gave us the size of this place happened right here ... and that's pretty special."

Tasked with dividing land, carrying an cumbersome compass and rudementary measuring pins, Blake set out to the Pompey's Pillar area. After doing his duty, Blake took it upon himself to forever etch his name in history right next to William Clark, 77 years later.

Now his name will continue to be displayed for countless Clark Days to come.