The Long Lost Image of Sacagawea

Did you know that there are no known drawings of depictions of Sacagawea? All of the images you see of her today are simply guesses. This activity shows three different depictions of Sacagawea and challenges students to author their own "authentic" sketch of Sacagawea.

Procedure:

1. Begin with a brief discussion: Ask students if they’ve heard of Sacagawea and what they know about her.
2. Explain that Sacagawea helped the Lewis and Clark expedition and is a historical figure of great importance—but no one knows exactly what she looked like.
3. Show students the $1 coin and postage stamp that feature images of Sacagawea and explain that these are artistic interpretations.
4. Read aloud or display the activity prompt:
   “Did you know there are no known pictures of Sacagawea? The images that you may have seen of her, on the United States $1 coin or 29-cent postage stamp, are simply educated guesses of what she looked like. Look at the commemorative images of her below and craft your own picture of her.”
5. Allow students time to create their own drawing of Sacagawea, using creativity and details from what they’ve learned about her life and culture.

Assessment:

Students will be assessed based on participation in the discussion and completion of a thoughtful, respectful drawing of Sacagawea that reflects understanding of the lesson.

Extension:

Have students write a short paragraph describing why they chose to depict Sacagawea the way they did, including any symbols or clothing in their portrait.