John Shields (explorer)

John Shields (c. 1769 – 1809) was a member of the Lewis and Clark Expedition (1804-1806), also known as the Corps of Discovery. He was a skilled blacksmith, gunsmith, and hunter, whose services proved invaluable to the expedition's success.

Born in Virginia, Shields later moved to Tennessee before joining the expedition at Clarksville in 1803 (prior to the official start date). He was one of the older members of the Corps. He quickly became an indispensable part of the team due to his metalworking skills, repairing equipment and weapons vital for survival in the wilderness. He also provided critical assistance in hunting and gathering food.

Shields was known for his quiet demeanor and dependability. He was trusted by both Lewis and Clark, and his contributions were often mentioned in their journals. His expertise in negotiating with Native American tribes, particularly those known for trading metal goods, was also highly valued.

Following the completion of the expedition, Shields returned to Kentucky. He is believed to have died in 1809. Despite not being as widely known as some other members of the Corps of Discovery, John Shields played a crucial role in the expedition's success due to his specialized skills and unwavering commitment.