DES MOINES, Iowa - A Sioux City woman who has spent numerous hours researching the Lewis and Clark Expedition received a top history award Monday from the State Historical Society of Iowa.

Beverly Hinds has been named the Historical Society’s recipient of the 2003 Petersen/Harlan Award, presented to an individual, group or organization that has made significant long-term or continuing contributions to Iowa history. The award was presented by State Historical Society Administrator Anita Walker and State Historical Society Board Chair Robert Neymeyer.

Hinds’ greatest contribution to Iowa history has been her historically accurate presentations to hundreds of Iowans regarding the Lewis and Clark expedition. Her in-depth research has been of great interest to Lewis and Clark scholars, while her professional illustrated talks on the maladies and medicines of the Lewis and Clark expedition are exceptional because of her long career in nursing.

Hinds has also been approved by the Humanities Iowa Speaker’s Bureau to give Lewis and Clark presentations. She constantly researches various aspects of the events of the Lewis and Clark expedition that took place in the Siouxland area. She has been instrumental in developing interactive events and sites so all Iowans can be involved in the national commemoration of the bicentennial of this historic expedition.

“The efforts Beverly has put into her research on Lewis and Clark are outstanding,” Walker said. “With accuracy she has portrayed aspects of the expedition that make it a fun educational tool and really bring to light this historic journey.”

The bicentennial of the Lewis and Clark expedition is expected to bring over 20 million visitors to the trail states in the 2004-2006 period, which Hinds sees as an “unprecedented opportunity to influence present-day Lewis and Clark explorers.”