Pierre-Joseph Céloron de Blainville

Pierre-Joseph Célron de Blainville was a French explorer and military officer who played a significant role in the territorial disputes between France and Great Britain in North America during the 18th century. He is most notably known for his 1749 expedition down the Ohio River.12

Célron's mission was to assert French claims to the Ohio River valley and to discourage British traders and settlers from encroaching on French territory. He traveled with a force of French soldiers and Native American allies, burying lead plates inscribed with French claims and nailing them to trees along the river. This expedition was a precursor to the French and Indian War.12