When Lewis and Clark set off on their historic expedition of discovery, they had already known each other for a number of years. They had shared many experiences while in the military together and had gained several invaluable skills that would later aid them in their travels. However, many people are unaware of the circumstances of their meeting.Nearly a decade before the Lewis and Clark Expedition departed for the west coast, these two men met under less than desirable circumstances. One was highly praised by his superior officers, a man who was noticed early on for his abilities as a natural leader. The other was preparing to represent himself in court, facing the possibility of a career-ending court martial. Despite their different backgrounds, Meriwether Lewis and William Clark somehow found common ground, founding a lifelong friendship.The story of Lewis and Clark did not begin or end with the Expedition. They went on to work side by side after its completion, navigating the politics and violence of the frontier in St. Louis. But their friendship prior to the Expedition is too often overlooked. Though Louisville, Kentucky, is often recognized as the starting point of the Lewis and Clark Expedition, few people actually know where they met for the first time: Greenville, Ohio.