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Meriwether Lewis

Born Aug. 18, 1774, in Albemarle County not far from Charlottesville, Lewis was a boyhood neighbor of Thomas Jefferson. In 1794, Lewis joined the U.S. Army and eventually rose to the rank of captain. During his time in the army he was attached to a sublegion of General "Mad Anthony" Wayne which Lt. William Clark commanded. The two men became fast friends during their adventures on a Northwest Campaign against the British and Indians. In 1801, Lewis became a private secretary to President Jefferson. Under Jefferson's direction, and with Clark by his side, Lewis planned the famous exploration for a route west to the Pacific coast. After the expedition Lewis was appointed Governor of the Louisiana Territory in 1807. He died tragically Oct. 11, 1809, at the age of 35, under ambiguous circumstances. It is speculated that personal and professional problems may have driven him to suicide, but some people believe the great western explorer was murdered.

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Loaves and Fishes has grown to be the City’s second largest distribution partner of the Blue Ridge Area Food Bank, supported by more than 100 volunteers. Executive Director Jane Colony Mills discusses the behind-the-scenes operations — from sourcing food to the work of their dietitian and volunteers — and reflects on why it’s important for students to learn about the city they live in.