As you look out from this camera...Did you know?
- At the bend in the river, northern bank, there used to be a village called La Charrette (at present day Marthasville).
Consisting of 7 cabins, this small community was the last white civilization Lewis and Clark saw as they
headed west on their big exploration. Just think what must have been going through their minds as they traversed this section
of river leaving civilization behind! La Charrette was also a stop when Lewis and Clark returned approximately 2 years later.
There is currently a small French-style cabin replica and monument at Marthasville, dedicated to the
hospitable village of La Charrette, which has long since been washed away by flooding.
See cabin page
- Charrette Creek used to empty into the Missouri at this bend in the river at La Charrette. Today it empties into the Missouri
near the Hwy. 47 bridge at Washington
- When the river level is low enough Dundee sandbar is revealed and is a huge draw for pleasure boaters and a great place to hang out.
It also makes a very nice wading area, since here, the bottom of the river is sand and not mud.
- The bluff you see before the bend (on right) is called Chitwood Bluff. It is home to eagles in the winter and is best viewed by
this camera in late afternoon or evening when the sun is low and shines on Chitwood making a nice glow.
- There is an old train tunnel beneath this hill at this camera location, which was retired in 1926. See tunnel page
- John Colter of the Lewis and Clark Expedition lived in the Dundee valley after the expedition. Some say he was buried on top of this hill as well.
- Numerous Indian artifacts have been found on this site. See artifacts Dave found This hill is a natural lookout area and would never be a flood risk, making it
an ideal location for native indians.