The 15-star, 15-stripe U.S. flag of 1805 will wave over ceremonies to be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, July 27, on the site of the recently purchased acreage above the Missouri River at the Crimson Bluffs just west of Townsend, Mont. 

Straw bales, “Lewis and Clark” bread, muzzleloaders, and buck- skin clad participants will herald the purchase of this pristine piece of property, now relatively unspoiled by power lines, roads and modern contrivances. 

To be unveiled in magnificent color is the interpretive sign for these Crimson Bluffs; the sign will later be placed permanently on site near a parking area along River Road. 

To view the Bluffs, a steep trail leads to the riverside; morning light best displays their splendid red color.  Floating down river from Yorks Islands Fishing Access also provides paddlers with a fine view of the crimson cliffs in the morning light. 

The Saturday morning ceremonies have been planned with sun/rain, wind/calm in mind.  Seating will be available, and refreshments will be served. 

This week in July coincides with the dates that the Lewis & Clark Expedition passed through the Townsend Valley in 1805.  Quoting from Expedition member Sgt. Patrick Gass, July 24, 1805:  The morning was fine, and we early prosecuted our voyage; passed a bank of very red earth, which our squaw told us the natives use for paint.  Deer are plenty among the bushes, and one of our men killed one on the bank.  We continued through the valley all day:  Went 19 miles and camped on the north side.