Honoring York’s Legacy Through Art and Storytelling
The city of Portland, Oregon is getting ready to celebrate the legacy of York, the only African American member of the Lewis and Clark Expedition. A nine-day festival called York Fest begins Friday, October 17.
The celebration brings together local artists, historians, and community members to spotlight York’s impact on the city’s history. Hosted by Oregon Black Pioneers, the festival aims to raise public awareness of York’s contributions and ensure his story is never forgotten.
“York was an essential member of the Corps of Discovery,” said Zachary Stocks, executive director of Oregon Black Pioneers. “We’re happy that people around the country — and especially here in Oregon — are finally recognizing York’s important contributions to our nation’s history.”
Festival Events Highlight York’s Role in History
York Fest features a mix of performances and screenings that reflect his extraordinary life. Audiences will see a one-man show by historical interpreter Hasan Davis, a screening of the documentary Big Medicine: York Outdoors, and the world premiere of the folk opera York the Explorer created by Aaron Nigel Smith and Renee Mitchell.
Venues include Alberta House, PAM CUT’s Tomorrow Theater, and Patricia Reser Center for the Arts. As of October 14, tickets are still available for most events except Davis’ The Journey of York, which is already sold out.
The festival offers pay-what-you-can pricing to make it accessible to everyone.
National Interest in York’s Story Continues to Grow
York’s legacy has drawn increased national attention since the George Floyd protests in 2020. In 2021, a sculptural bust of York appeared on Mount Tabor, replacing the pedestal where a statue of Harvey Scott once stood.
Zachary Stocks explained that this shift reflects a larger cultural moment. “People are looking more closely at the untold stories of Black Americans who shaped this nation. York’s story is one of them.”
York’s strength, intelligence, and courage earned respect during the expedition. He traded with Native American communities, hunted for food, and even cast a vote on where the group would camp — a rare act of agency for an enslaved man in that era.
A Story of Courage and Resistance
Despite his critical role, York received no pay for his work on the expedition. William Clark also refused to grant him freedom afterward. Yet his contributions changed the course of history and opened new conversations about race, power, and legacy in America.
Today, York is celebrated as Portland, Oregon’s first Black ancestor. The festival ensures his name is remembered not as a footnote, but as a central figure in the city’s story.
York Fest gives attendees a chance to honor his journey and reflect on the broader impact of Black contributions to American history.
Event Details
York Fest runs from October 17 to October 25. Event schedules, ticket information, and venue details are available at yorkfest.com.
This celebration offers a powerful opportunity to engage with York’s story through art, theater, and community dialogue.
