Meriwether Lewis was born August 18, 1774 in Albermarle County, Virginia. His father died November 1779 when his horse fell into icy water. Six months later, Lucy his mother, married John Marks, an Army officer. In 1794 Lewis joined the US army. In 1801 he was chosen by President Jefferson to be his personal secretary. Lewis was over six feet tall, very loyal and very flexible. He was also known for being moody and took very detailed observations. During the planning of the expedition, President Jefferson selected Lewis because, "Lewis was brave, prudent, habituated to the woods & familiar with Indian manners and character. Lewis knew that he would need someone to help him lead the journey. Both Jefferson and Lewis thought of Clark. Lewis sent a letter to Clark asking him to be co-captain of the journey. Lewis got a letter from Clark that said, "My friend I assure you no man lives with whome I would perfur to undertake Such a Trip &c as your self." Later President Jefferson offered Clark a position at Captain with Lewis. Then both Lewis and Clark had equal positions. When Lewis returned home he spent Christmas with his mother. Later he went to Washington to collect his reward for leading the expedition. It was $1,228, and 1,600 acres of land. After that his relationship with the President began to fade. Lewis was beginning to have some drinking problems. One night Lewis stole his own life. He shot himself in the head then in the breast. Today his grave is marked by a monument.