Private John Colter

Private John Colter. Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail. Born about the time of the American Revolution John Colter was enlisted as a private in the Lewis and Clark Expedition at Maysville, Kentucky in October, 1803. He began the expedition as an oarsman but because of his skills as a woodsman was relieved and became a hunter. Colter also served as a scout, messenger, and was often a friend of the Indians. He remained with the expedition until August, 1806 when he was discharged and returned to the mountains to trap. , Much of what we know about Colter's role in the expedition is recorded in journal entries written by members of the Corp of Discovery. , Journal Entries , Ordway, Sept. 6, 1804, "…Colter came to the boat had not found Shannon nor the horses but had kilted one buffelow, one elk, 3 deer one wolf 5 turkies and goose one beaver also." , Lewis, Aug. 24, 1805, "…and dispatched Colter on horseback with orders to loose on time reaching me. , Lewis, Sept. 10, 1805, "This evening one of our hunters (Colter) returned accompanied by three men of the Flathead nation who he had met in his excursion up Travellers rest Creek. On first meeting him the Indians were alarmed and prepared for battle with the bows and arrows, but he soon relieved their fears by laying down his fun and advancing toward them." , Clark, Sept. 27, 1805, "J. Colter returned he found only one of the lost horses, on his way killed a deer, half of which he gave the lndians the other proved nourishing to the sick." , Lewis, June, 5, 1806, "Colter and Bratton were permitted to visit the Indian village today for the purpose of trading for roots and bread, they were fortunate and made a good return.” , Ordway, July 15, 1806, “Colter killed a panther a deer and a rattlesnake. In the evening we camped in the mountains. Collins killed 4 elk. The musquetoes very troublesome in deed.”