Oregon Black Pioneers to Present 'A Man Called York' at Tillamook County Pioneer Museum

Special free presentation on February 28th features biography of York, an enslaved man who accompanied the Lewis and Clark Expedition.

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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The Tillamook County Pioneer Museum is hosting a special presentation by Zachary Stocks of Oregon Black Pioneers about the life of York, an enslaved man who participated in the Lewis and Clark Expedition from 1803-1806. The event on February 28th will explore York's experiences during the expedition as well as his life before and after. The presentation corresponds with a traveling exhibit about York that will be on display at the museum through the end of the month.

Why it matters

York's story is an important part of African American history that is often overlooked. This presentation provides an opportunity to learn more about his role in the Lewis and Clark Expedition and his place within the broader context of national African American history.

The details

Zachary Stocks, the Executive Director of Oregon Black Pioneers, will give a detailed biography of York during the free presentation at the Tillamook County Pioneer Museum on February 28th at 6pm. Seating is limited, so registration is required. The presentation corresponds with a traveling exhibit about York that will be on display at the museum through the end of the month.

  • The 'A Man Called York' exhibit will be on display at the Tillamook County Pioneer Museum through February 28, 2026.
  • The special presentation by Zachary Stocks will take place on February 28, 2026 at 6pm.

The players

Zachary Stocks

The Executive Director of Oregon Black Pioneers, a public historian, interpreter, and former intern at Colonial Williamsburg and the Smithsonian's National Museum of Natural History.

Oregon Black Pioneers

Oregon's only historical society dedicated to preserving and presenting the experiences of African Americans statewide.

Tillamook County Pioneer Museum

The museum hosting the 'A Man Called York' exhibit and presentation.

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What they’re saying

“Us taking a moment out of our lives to acknowledge someone else is keeping their identity alive long after they're gone.”

— Zachary Stocks, Executive Director, Oregon Black Pioneers (tillamookcountypioneer.net)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This presentation highlights the importance of preserving and sharing the stories of African Americans who have played significant roles in our nation's history, but whose contributions are often overlooked. By learning about York's experiences, we can gain a more comprehensive understanding of the Lewis and Clark Expedition and the broader context of African American history.