August 20, 1804
The Lewis and Clark Expedition suffered its first and only fatality. Sergeant Charles Floyd died from, what is now believed to be, Appendicitis. At the time appendicitis was unknown, however it was recognized as a medical condition some 20 years later. The first successful surgical treatment was carried out in 1884.

Floyd was buried on a headland which overlooked the Missouri River. The headland was named Floyds Bluff, and a nearby unnamed river was called Floyds River, both in honor of Charles Floyd.

August 26, 1804
Patrick Gass was promoted to Sergeant as a replacement for Floyd. He took over Floyd’s duties as quartermaster.

August 29, 1804
Lewis & Clark had their first encounter with the Yankton Sioux Indians, one of three divisions of the Sioux. The meeting passed peacefully with pipe smoking and gift exchanges taking place. The expedition continued it's journey.

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