Talk-Oregon Black Pioneers: York’s Role with the Lewis & Clark Expedition

For this presentation, Oregon Black Pioneers staff will share details on York’s critical role in aiding the Lewis & Clark Expedition and more. York was an enslaved man who took part in the Lewis and Clark Expedition from 1803-1806. But what is known about York besides his participation in this journey? Oregon Black Pioneers will present a detailed biography of York, which reveals his experiences during the Expedition, his life before and after, and his place within national African American history.

Speaker Bio: Mariah Rocker is the Public Programs and Exhibits Manager at Oregon Black Pioneers. With a bachelor’s in Public Relations and a bachelor’s in Sociology, Mariah’s passion for uncovering and sharing the stories of marginalized communities is evident in both her professional and personal pursuits. In her free time, Mariah channels the strength and resilience of historical icons by dressing up as them, and also enjoys crafting handmade miniatures.