His father, and later inherited by his brother, held the position of avocat au parlement de Navarre, a traditional region including Béarn, located in Pau.

Historians have commented on his energy, knowledge, and good judgement, which suggest past business experience, and a greater understanding for his success as a merchant.

[citation needed] During this time, Laclède began to form relationships with the officials and Native Americans in the region around New Orleans.

It was through many of these conversations that Laclède learned of the opportunities that awaited further north, which inspired his exploration of the Mississippi at its confluence with the Missouri and Illinois rivers.

[citation needed] He moved like a fencer with extreme grace and ease and retained an air of command at all time.

[citation needed] As divorce was not allowed during that time by the Catholic Church or the state, Madame Chouteau was legally married to Rene during most of her relationship with Laclède.

[citation needed] Laclède was sponsored by the New Orleans merchant Gilbert Antoine de Saint-Maxent in 1763 to construct a trading post near the confluence of the Mississippi and Missouri rivers.

In August, he embarked with a small crew, which included his common law wife's son, René-Auguste Chouteau, Jr.

Though few outposts or trading posts were already set-up, many Europeans had made the journey up the Mississippi River, making the trip more monotonous than exciting.

[citation needed] In the 1770 census of Spanish Illinois, Laclede is listed as the owner of seven enslaved Native Americans.