Toussaint Charbonneau

Toussaint Charbonneau was a French Canadian explorer; Charbonneau was the oldest member of the Lewis and Clark Expedition's permanent party, and he would outlive most of his fellows as he followed the rigorous life of a fur traders, guide, and interpreter. In fact, the fur trade had put him in place to meet the captains and join their expedition. Born in Canada to French parents in 1767, Toussaint Charbonneau was a trapper and trader for the North West Company, a Canadian fur-trading concern. Charbonneau's first appearance in the historical record – and also the first blemish on his reputation – come from the records of that company. He is best known for his role in the Lewis and Clark Expedition as the husband of Sacagawea.