York Fest

Who is York?

York was a Black man born in Virginia around 1772. He was enslaved by William Clark, who brought him west as part of the Lewis and Clark Expedition (1803-1806). York worked as a laborer and hunter during the journey, and showed friendship and goodwill to Native nations. Upon reaching the Pacific Ocean in 1805, York became the first Black person to cross North America above Mexico.

York’s contributions helped ensure the Expedition’s success, but he received no compensation for his services. He asked Clark for his freedom and Clark refused. York’s efforts were rarely acknowledged in the two centuries that followed.

This October, in honor of the 220th anniversary of York’s arrival in what is today Portland, artists and organizations across the city will gather to recognize and celebrate the achievements of our city’s first Black ancestor.