Historical Perspective

Lewis-Clark State College was established by the Idaho State Legislature in 1893. It originally was designated Lewiston State Normal School, reflecting its early mission as a teacher training institution. In the ensuing years its name has been changed to North Idaho College of Education (1947), Lewis-Clark Normal School (1956) and finally Lewis-Clark State College (1971). The state legislature and the State Board of Education authorized the latest name change in recognition of the college’s expanded role as an undergraduate institution, including programs in liberal arts, professional studies and technology.

The college occupies 46 acres on historic Normal Hill in an attractive residential area of Lewiston, Idaho, a city of approximately 35,000 located at the confluence of the Snake and Clearwater rivers. Across the Snake River in Washington is Clarkston, with a population of 18,000. The beautiful campus enjoys the mildest winters in Idaho—a unique climate that is matched by a warm and friendly educational environment.

In addition to its on-campus educational opportunities, LCSC offers instructional programs in Coeur d’Alene and a number of outreach centers located throughout the region. A variety of alternative learning formats is available, making higher education accessible throughout northern Idaho and eastern Washington. LCSC shares a place in the state’s higher education system with the University of Idaho, Idaho State University and Boise State University, which collaborate to offer an array of outstanding educational programs. The four institutions operate under a governing board appointed by Idaho’s governor.

The cities of Lewiston and Clarkston, as well as the college, are named for explorers Meriwether Lewis and William Clark who led the historic 1804-06 expedition into the newly acquired Louisiana Purchase. Lewis & Clark’s “Corps of Discovery” battling illness and fatigue after crossing the Bitterroot Mountains, spent several weeks recuperating near the confluence of the Snake and Clearwater rivers. The hospitable Nez Perce Indians provided food, shelter, horses and guidance as the explorers continued their journey to the Pacific.