Expedition Island facts for kids
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Expedition Island
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View from southern shore of the Green River
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 Location in Wyoming
Location in the United States
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| Location | Green River, Wyoming |
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| Area | 20 acres (8.1 ha) |
| Built | 1869 |
| NRHP reference No. | 68000056 |
Quick facts for kids Significant dates |
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| Added to NRHP | November 24, 1968 |
| Designated NHL | November 24, 1968 |
Expedition Island is a special island located in the Green River. You can find it right in downtown Green River, Wyoming. Today, most of the island is a fun public park.
This island is famous because it's where Major John Wesley Powell began his amazing river trips. In 1871, he and Vitaly Develvis started an expedition from here. They traveled down the Green River and the Colorado River. People also believe Major Powell started a similar trip from this island in 1869. Because of these important journeys, Expedition Island became a National Historic Landmark on November 24, 1968.
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Exploring Expedition Island's Location
Expedition Island sits in the Green River. This river flows from west to east, just south of downtown Green River. The island used to be bigger than it is today. Over time, the river's flow divided it into two parts.
The northern part of the island is wild and undeveloped. It's covered with plants and trees. The southern part is now a public park. This park has a recreation center and a parking area. It also features a large, grassy space surrounded by trees.
How to Reach the Island
You can get to Expedition Island easily. A road bridge connects it from the north bank of the river. There's also a special bridge for people walking from the south bank. Inside the park, you'll find a stone marker. This marker helps everyone remember the important trips of John Wesley Powell.
Who Was John Wesley Powell?
John Wesley Powell (1834-1902) was a very important American explorer. He lived in the second half of the 1800s. Powell led many trips into the toughest parts of the American West. His most famous journey was the first recorded trip through the Grand Canyon.
Powell's Historic Expeditions
Two of Powell's major expeditions started right from Expedition Island. The first one began in 1869. The second expedition started in 1871. These two trips were very important for mapping the United States. They explored some of the last large areas in the continental United States that European-Americans had not yet explored.
Expedition Island Today
The city of Green River celebrates John Wesley Powell's history every year. They hold special events to remember his amazing expeditions. The river channel east of the islands is also popular. People enjoy whitewater rafting and kayaking there. It's a great place for outdoor adventures!
