Pompey's Pillar

This is the first time we've driven this section of I-94 east of Billings (perhaps since I was a kid), despite the large number of trips we've done through this part of the world. Somehow, we've just wound up on other routes. So this was the first time we've visited Pompey's Pillar.

Pompey's Pillar is one of the many singular rock formations across the west that Lewis and Clark chose to scribble their names on - not that they were the first or the last to do so. In this case, Clark noted the aboriginal markings and then proceeded to sign his full name next to them (on July 25, 1806).  The Pillar is located along the Yellowstone River and is named after Sacajawea's son, who traveled with them.

The Pillar is significant in another way. According to Google Maps, it is 854 miles from our home in Seattle. And it is also 854 miles from Northfield MN.  So it precisely marks the halfway point between D's home and his school, at least if you follow the I-94 option.  A little more than 12 hours on each side -- if you drive like a madman.