Leaders & Politicians · 18th Century
Meriwether Lewis’s Last Words
“I am no coward, but I am so strong. So hard to die.”— Meriwether Lewis, October 11, 1809
Who Was Meriwether Lewis?
Meriwether Lewis co-led the Corps of Discovery expedition with William Clark from 1804 to 1806, mapping the American West to the Pacific Ocean.
The Final Moments
Lewis died at Grinder's Stand in Tennessee under mysterious circumstances. He was found with gunshot wounds and lived long enough to speak these words.
Are These Words Verified?
Based on testimony of innkeeper Priscilla Grinder who found Lewis wounded. However, the circumstances of his death (suicide vs. murder) remain disputed, and her account has been questioned.
Sources
- firsthand Priscilla Grinder (innkeeper) testimony
- other Thomas Jefferson correspondence
- biography Stephen Ambrose, Undaunted Courage
Legacy
The Lewis and Clark Expedition mapped the American West and opened it to settlement.
Frequently Asked Questions
What were Meriwether Lewis’s last words?
“I am no coward, but I am so strong. So hard to die.”
How did Meriwether Lewis die?
Meriwether Lewis died on October 11, 1809 at the age of 35. Cause of death: Gunshot wounds — likely suicide.
Were Meriwether Lewis’s last words documented?
Based on testimony of innkeeper Priscilla Grinder who found Lewis wounded. However, the circumstances of his death (suicide vs. murder) remain disputed, and her account has been questioned.
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