Seaman: The Newfoundland Who Explored America

The 150-pound explorer with paws on the Lewis & Clark map.

When you think of famous American explorers, Lewis and Clark probably come to mind. But there was another member of their team—one with four legs, a big heart, and a whole lot of fur. Meet Seaman, the Newfoundland dog who became a full-fledged member of the Corps of Discovery as it carved a path through the American West.

🐕 Who Was Seaman?

Seaman was a giant black Newfoundland purchased by Meriwether Lewis in 1803 for $20 (a princely sum for a pup back then). Newfoundlands were prized for their strength, loyalty, and swimming ability—qualities that would prove essential on the expedition.

From the very beginning, Seaman was more than just a pet. He was a working dog, a companion, and a protector. As the Corps ventured across rough terrain, through rivers, and into unknown territories, Seaman kept pace every step of the way.

🐾 A Dog with a Job

Seaman wasn’t lounging in the canoes while everyone else did the work. No, this dog was earning his keep. According to journals kept by Lewis and Clark, Seaman helped:

• Hunt for small game to feed the team
• Warn of danger, including wild animals and suspicious strangers
• Fend off a buffalo, literally saving the expedition’s supplies
• Swim across freezing rivers to retrieve downed waterfowl
• Provide morale when spirits were low

He even survived an illness, was nearly stolen by Indigenous people who admired his size and strength, and was treated as one of the crew, not just an animal.

🌟 Seaman’s Legacy

Seaman completed the journey from St. Louis to the Pacific and back again—more than 8,000 miles. He endured blizzards, hunger, and danger right alongside the human explorers. When the team returned, Seaman was considered a hero.

Though there’s no known grave, statues of Seaman appear across the country, including at the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center and on the Corps of Discovery monument. His role, once a footnote, is now recognized as a key part of this incredible expedition.

🐶 Final Thoughts

Seaman wasn’t just a mascot—he was an adventurer, protector, and loyal teammate. In a time when dogs were rarely credited with more than companionship, Seaman showed that courage and loyalty know no species.

So the next time your dog proudly retrieves a stick or keeps an eye on the backyard squirrels, just remember: they might be channeling a little bit of Seaman’s pioneer spirit.

Let us know your thoughts below!