John Rae's Arctic Correspondence, 1844-1855


Book Description

Although Arctic explorer and Hudson Bay Company surveyor John Rae (1813-1893) travelled and recorded the final uncharted sections of the Northwest Passage, he is best known for his controversial discovery of the fate of the lost Franklin Expedition of 1845. Based on evidence given to him by local Inuit, Rae determined that Franklin's crew had resorted to cannibalism in their final, desperate days. Seen as maligning a national hero, Rae was shunned by British society. This collection of personal correspondence--reissued here for the first time since its original publication in 1953--illuminates the details of Rae's expeditions through his own words. The letters offer a glimpse into Rae's daily life, his ideas, musings, and troubles. Prefaced by the original, thorough introduction detailing his early life, John Rae's Arctic Correspondence is a crucial resource for any Arctic enthusiast. This new edition features a foreword by researcher and Arctic enthusiast Ken McGoogan, the award-winning author of eleven books, including Fatal Passage: The Untold Story of John Rae (HarperCollins, 2002).




Memoir


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A Journey from Prince of Wales's Fort in Hudson's Bay to the Northern Ocean


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Samuel Hearne's 'A Journey from Prince of Wales's Fort in Hudson's Bay to the Northern Ocean' is a remarkable travel narrative that chronicles Hearne's expedition to discover a trade route to the Arctic Ocean. Written in a straightforward and detailed style, the book provides a vivid account of Hearne's encounters with Indigenous peoples, wildlife, and the harsh environment of the Canadian North. Hearne's observations of the landscape and his interactions with the Dene people offer valuable insights into the history and culture of the region during the 18th century. This book stands out as a significant early example of Canadian exploration literature. Samuel Hearne, a Hudson's Bay Company employee and experienced explorer, was uniquely positioned to undertake this challenging journey. His keen observational skills and understanding of Indigenous traditions make his narrative both informative and engaging. Hearne's firsthand account of his travels reflects his deep respect for the land and its inhabitants. I highly recommend 'A Journey from Prince of Wales's Fort in Hudson's Bay to the Northern Ocean' to readers interested in early Canadian exploration, Indigenous cultures, and tales of adventure in the Arctic wilderness. Hearne's narrative is a valuable historical document that continues to captivate audiences with its vivid descriptions and compelling storytelling.




John Rae, Arctic Explorer


Book Description

John Rae is best known today as the first European to reveal the fate of the Franklin Expedition, yet the range of Rae’s accomplishments is much greater. Over five expeditions, Rae mapped some 1,550 miles (2,494 kilometres) of Arctic coastline; he is undoubtedly one of the Arctic’s greatest explorers, yet today his significance is all but lost. John Rae, Arctic Explorer is an annotated version of Rae’s unfinished autobiography. William Barr has extended Rae’s previously unpublished manuscript and completed his story based on Rae’s reports and correspondence—including reaction to his revelations about the Franklin Expedition. Barr’s meticulously researched, long overdue presentation of Rae’s life and legacy is an immensely valuable addition to the literature of Arctic exploration.







Senate documents


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