All Things Polar Tributes: polar memorials and remembrances
This Items section identifies polar related cairns, memorials, monuments, statues, and more that are themselves mini-destinations, some large, some small. Though most of the tributes listed on this page are free standing, a few are found in or associated with museums, listed separately on the Places page. Links are in some cases are to images and in others a page dedicated to the item. For each country they are in no particular order, so as to show no favoritism. Addresses are listed for the item itself or to the closest known landmark, with a description of the physical relationship between the two, i.e. how to get from the address to the item in question. If available, the Google plus code is included; this can be copied and pasted into your browser to see the location of the item in question. In some cases latitude and longitude are provided, primarily if a plus code is not available. If important for environmental reasons, a link to visiting guidelines is provided. Between the information found here and that on the Places page, countless hours can be spent visiting and learning about all things polar, past and present. Peruse by the country of interest below, to plan your next trip whether in person or virtually.Antarctica and sub-polar islands
Bust of Sir Ernest Shackleton-South Georgia Museum, Grytviken SIQQ 1ZZ, South Georgia & South Sandwich Islands; PF9R+WX Grytviken, South Georgia & South Sandwich Islands-
This bust of Sir Ernest Shackleton was unveiled at the museum in November 2017. The bronze piece was sculpted by Anthony Smith who was artist in residence with the South Georgia Heritage Trust.
Bust of Captain Luis Pardo Villalón-Point Wild, Elephant Island, South Shetland Islands; 61º06´00´´S, 54º52´00´´W; Point Wild Guidelines-perhaps one of the more difficult monuments to get to, this commemorates the Chilean captain who rescued Shackleton’s men who remained behind on Elephant Island while Shackleton made his desperate dash to South Georgia in the James Caird.
Grave of Sir Ernest Shackleton-Grytviken Cemetery, SIQQ 1ZZ, South Georgia & South Sandwich Islands; PF7V+X3 Grytviken, South Georgia & South Sandwich Islands-one of the most visited locations by tourists in the polar regions, Shackleton’s body was en route (after his death) to England when his wife Emily decided wisely to bury him in the latitudes that he loved. Following a service in the Lutheran church that had been constructed by Carl Anton Larson, Shackleton was buried in the cemetery on March 5, 1922. The headstone was placed in 1928. On the back of his gravestone is inscribed a quote by Robert Browning: “I hold that a man should strive to the uttermost for his life’s set prize”. Shackleton now lies next to his “right hand man” Frank Wild.
Memorial to Sir Ernest Shackleton-SIQQ 1ZZ, South Georgia & South Sandwich Islands; PG86+JM King Edward Point, South Georgia & South Sandwich Islands-Following his death on Quest, Shackleton’s body was taken to Montevideo, Uruguay. During that time, the crew of Quest built this stone memorial topped by a white cross at Hope Point. The cairn was moved during slightly during WWII to make way for a gun placement.
Cairn Monument to Jean Baptiste Charcot-Booth Island, Argentine Islands, Antarctica; 65°04'03.7"S 63°58'50.2"W; 376RW2J9+WQ ; Port Charcot Guidelines-another out of the way location, this was one of the areas that Charcot explored during his 1904-1907 expedition aboard Français. Port Charcot, where the cairn is located is actually named after his father who was a very prominent French physician.
Memorial to Rear Admiral Richard E Byrd-McMurdo Station, Antarctica; 77°51'S, 166°40'E-created by Felix de Weldon and donated by the National Geographic Society, this is a replica of the same memorial found in Washington D.C. It was dedicated on October 25, 1965. Made of bronze and sitting on a black marble pedestal, it was placed originally outside the chapel, but has since been moved to the Chalet. The inscription (by Byrd): I am hopeful that Antarctica in its symbolic robe of white will shine forth as a continent of peace as nations working together there in the cause of science set an example of international cooperation.
The Southern Antarctic Monument-Historic Dockyard Museum Stanley FK, Stanley FIQQ 1ZZ, Atps Plus - Aah, Towfiq, Islands, Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas); 845M+GW Stanley, Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas)-this monument is half of a duo memorial to "those who lost their lives in Antarctica in pursuit of science". The design and sculpture of stainless steel, unveiled in 2015, is by Oliver Barratt. This portion represents the elliptical “cast” from the other half, located in Cambridge, England, and listed below.
Other Antarctica historic monuments-Antarctic Circle comprehensive listing of monuments and all historic Antarctic sites-if you will be visiting Antarctica check out this list to see if any of the sites are covered in your tour. Conversely you can plan a tour based on whether it visits some of these sites of interest. Note that many are accessible only with difficulty, require that special guidelines be adhered to, or are in environmentally sensitive areas.
Argentina
Bust of Adrien de Gerlache de Gomery-Av. Prefectura Naval, Ushuaia, Tierra del Fuego, Argentina; 5MVX+9V Ushuaia, Tierra del Fuego Province, Argentina- at the end of the avenue, overlooking the water, in front of Avenue Maipu-along with several other sculptures in Ushuaia, Gerlache is found on the Maipu promenade overlooking the Beagle Channel. The bronze bust, sitting on a marble pedestal was sculpted by Jozef Carmans. It was unveiled on January 24, 2008 by Gerlache’s grandson Bernard, who himself had participated in the U.S. Antarctic Expedition of 1972-1973. The inscription: Adrien de Gerlache; Belgian polar explorer; (136-1944); Captain of the Belgica and Commander of the first international scientific expedition, discovered an important part of the antarctic peninsula and was the first to winter-over in antarctic (1897-1899); the Belgica sailed from Ushuaia towards antarctica in December 1897; monument inauguration on 24 January 2004 by his great-grandson Bernard de Gerlache.
Australia
Statue of Sir Douglas Mawson-221 North Terrace, Adelaide SA 5000, Australia; 3JH3+G9 Adelaide, South Australia, Australia-this prominently located bust of Mawson is appropriately situated adjacent to the University of Adelaide, where he started his career as a lecturer in mineralogy and petrology in 1905. The sculpture is by John Dowie and was unveiled on August 16, 1982 by the mayor of Adelaide. The inscription: Mawson; Sir Douglas Mawson O.B.E. B.E. D.Sc. F.R.S. F.A.A. 1882-1958; Professor of Geology and Mineralogy; Antarctic scientist and explorer. Of note, the Mawson Geo Centre (geological sciences) is located in the university’s Mawson building 1,500 feet NE of the statue on the north side of campus.
Statue of Captain James Cook-Park St &, College St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia; 46G6+8Q Sydney, New South Wales, Australia-this large bronze statue is located in Hyde Park along with other important tributes such as the ANZAC memorial. It was designed by Thomas Woolner, produced by Cox & Sons, Thomas Ditton Foundry (England), and unveiled on February 25, 1879. The front inscription: Captain Cook. This statue was erected by public subscription assisted by a grant from the New South Wales Government 1879.
Memorial Plaque to Nobu Shirase-Parsley Rd, Vaucluse NSW 2030, Australia; 47XH+46 Vaucluse, New South Wales, Australia-this plaque, located across the bay from Sydney where the first Japanese Antarctica expedition of 1910-1912 overwintered, memorializes the relationship between Shirase and Edgeworth David for his warmth and friendship towards the expedition. It was erected and dedicated in March, 2002. The inscription: The first Japanese Antarctic expedition team commanded by Lieutenant Nobu Shirase (1881 -1946) set sail on the 204 ton schooner " Kainan Maru" from Tokyo in November 1910. Forced back by treacherous weather, the team arrived in Sydney on 1 May 1911. After attempting to set up camp in a number of harbourside locations, the team eventually settled at Parsley Bay Reserve, where they set up shelters behind the former kiosk. Encouraged and assisted by Professor Edgeworth David of the University of Sydney, on 19 November 1911 the party set sail for their second attempt in the wake of the great Antarctic explorers Scott and Amundsen. Shirase's "Dash Patrol" with 5 men and 28 dogs reached 80.05' South on 28 January 1912. To commemorate the 90th anniversary of their Southernmost year and this early friendly contact between Australia and Japan, this memorial plaque is a symbol of everlasting friendship between both countries. 27 March 2002. Councillor John Comino, Mayor of Woollahra; Matsumi Sasaki, Mayor of Kenowra Town, Japan (birthplace of Lieutenant Shirase).
Belgium
Statue of Adrien de Gerlache de Gomery-Guffenslaan, 3500 Hasselt, Belgium; W8HR+5F Hasselt, Belgium-located in Guffenslaan opposite the house in which Gerlache was born, this large bronze statue sits at the head of De Gerlache street. Gerlache stands upon pieces of bluestone (ice?). The statue was sculpted by local artist Gerare Moonen, unveiled on March 1, 1998, and was attended by Gerlache’s son Gaston. The date celebrated the 100th anniversary of Gerlache’s required overwintering in Antarctica due to the Belgica being trapped in pack ice; though not on “terra firma” this was the first expedition to face Antarctic weather during its most inhospitable season..
England
Shackleton's boat: The James Caird-Dulwich College-Dulwich Common, Dulwich, London, SE21 7LD, UK; CWR7+4W London, United Kingdom-the original 23 foort James Caird, the largest of three lifeboats of Endurance, and the one that was used by Shackleton and colleagues to sail from Elephant Island to South Georgia. Note that the boat is named after one of the financiers of the Imperial Trans-Antarctic expedition. She returned to England in 1919 and was gifted to Dulwich in 1922 by a sponsor of the Quest expedition: John Quiller Rowett. The boat was loaned for 20 years to the National Maritime Museum, but returned in 1989. A few exhibitions later brought her to 2015; since that time she has resided in the “Laboratory”, the science block at the college. If you want to support all things James Caird, you can join the James Caird Society. Currently, the boat is housed in the college’s new Science and Technology building.
Statue of Ernest Shackleton-Royal Geographical Society-1 Kensington Gore, South Kensington, London SW7 2AR, UK; GR2F+GX London, United Kingdom-Shackleton’s shrine at the RGS resides in an alcove on the outside of the building facing Exhibition Road. The bronze statue is eight feet high and was sculpted by Charles Sargeant Jagger between 1927-1932. Apparently, Jagger borrowed the design of Shackleton’s head from a previous bust sculpted by J. A. Stevenson. Sir Ernest is adorned in his sledging attire. It is a stunning sculpture. If you are interested, on the other side of the building is an equally attractive sculpture of Dr. David Livingstone, the Scottish missionary of African exploration fame.
Statue of Edward Wilson-Promenade, Cheltenham GL50 1WG, United Kingdom; VWXC+CQ Cheltenham, United Kingdom-an elegant statue of Wilson, Sir Robert Scott’s compatriot, in Wilson’s hometown. It is fitting that the sculpture was done by Scott’s widow Kathleen, a prominents sculptor. It was unveiled by Sir Clements Markham, president of the RGS on July 9, 1914. The inscription: EDWARD ADRIAN WILSON-b.a. m.b. cantab. f.z.s., born in cheltenham 1872. chief of the scientific staff, artist and zoologist of the british antarctic expedition 1910-1913. he reached the south pole january 17, 1912 and died with capt. scott on the great ice barrier march 1912. "he died as he lived, a brave true man, the best of comrades and staunchest of friends" [letter from capt. scott].
Stained glass window of Edward Wilson-Cheltenham College Chapel of St. Mary, Sandford Rd, Cheltenham GL53 7LD, United Kingdom; VWRF+WW Cheltenham, United Kingdom-this beautiful treasure located in the college chapel is part of the Fortitude window, the third window from the west, located on the north side. It was designed by a Mr. Homan and executed by a Messrs. Powell. Details of Chapel of St. Mary. Interesting, at the time of Wilson’s attendance at the college, the chapel was not yet built. The chapel of his time is now the dining hall.
Statue of Frank Wild-Ringrose Orchard Garden, Skelton-on-Cleveland, Saltburn-by-the-Sea, UK-this bust of Wild looking into the distance was created by William Harling and unveiled on September 29, 2016 by Mr. Anthony Wharton.
Statue of Sir Robert Scott-Waterloo Place, St. James's, London SW1Y 5ED, United Kingdom; GV49+Q6 London, United Kingdom-one of the most prominently located polar reminders at the lower end of Regent Street, this bronze statue “Scott of the Antarctic” was sculpted by Lady Kathleen Scott in 1915 and erected by officers of the fleet on May 11, 1915. The inscription: Captain Robert Scott, Captain Royal Navy, Who with four companions, EA Wilson, HR Bowers, LEG Oates, E Evans, Dies March 1912 returning from the south pole, ‘Had we lived I should have had a tale to tell, Of the hardihood endurance and courage, Of my companions which would have stirred, The heart of every Englishman, These rough notes and, Our dead bodies must tell the tale’.
Memorial for Robert Falcon Scott and his Companions-St. Paul’s Cathedral, St. Paul's Churchyard, London EC4M 8AD, United Kingdom; GW72+GM London, United Kingdom-located in the South transept at the entrance to the crypt, this bronze bas relief plaque attributed to S. Nicholson Babb. The inscription: In Memory of Capt. Robert Falcon Scott C.V.O. R.N., Dr. Edward Adrian Wilson, Capt Lawrence Edward Grace Oates, Lieut Henry Robertson Bowers and Petty Officer Edgar Evans, who died on their return journey from the South Pole in February and March 1912; Inflexible of Purpose, Steadfast in Courage, Resolute in Endurance in the face of unparalleled Misfortune. Their Bodies are lost in the Antarctic Ice but the memory of their Deeds is an Everlasting Monument.
Statue of Sir Robert Scott-Historic Naval Dockyards, Victory Gate, HM Naval Base, Portsmouth PO1 3LJ, United Kingdom; RV2R+66 Portsmouth, United Kingdom-this bronze statue depicting Scott with one of his dogs overlooks the historic docks at Portsmouth. It was sculpted by his wife Lady Kathleen Scott in 1915. The inscription: CAPTAIN ROBERT FALCON SCOTT RN, CVO; Born 6 June 1868 Died about 29 March 1912, During his return from the south pole, In his journal found 8 months later he wrote, The gale is howling about us we are weak, Writing is difficult but for my own sake, I do not regret this journey which has shown, That Englishmen can endure hardships, Help one another and meet death with, As great a fortitude as ever in the past, We took risks we knew we took them, Things have come out against us and, therefore we have no cause for complaint, But bow to the will of providence, Determined to do our best to the end.
Statue of Captain James Cook-The Mall, Westminster, London SW1A 2WH, United Kingdom; GV4C+G8 London, United Kingdom-equally prominent with Scott, nearby at Waterloo Place, is this bronze statue of Cook standing on a coil of rope, sculpted by Thomas Brock and unveiled on July 7, 1914. It is on the south side of The Mall just SW of Admiralty Arch. The inscription: Captain James Cook/R.N. F.R.S./Born 1728 Died 1779/Circumnavigator of the globe explorer of/the Pacific Ocean he laid the foundations of/the British empire in Australia and New Zealand/charted the shores of New Foundland and traversed/the ocean gates of Canada both East and West//Unveiled by H.R.H. Prince Arthur of Connaught/on behalf of the British Empire League 7th July 1914.
Monument of Captain James Cook-Easby Moor, TS9 6HN, Gribdale Terrace, Great Ayton, Middlesbrough, UK; FWM5+6M Middlesbrough, United Kingdom; on the summit of Easby Moor, reached by a footpath from a car park on Dikes Lane, east of Great Ayton rail station-as Cook grew up on Great Ayton it is fitting that this obelisk in tribute to him overlooks the town. It was built privately by the owner of the estate, Robert Campion. Built of local sandstone, it measures 60 feet high and is 12 feet square at the base. It was unveiled on October 27, 1827, Cooks birthday. The hollow tower once had a door that is now sealed. Several other renovations have occurred over the years, including one in 1960 following damage from a lightning strike. The monument is on the beautiful Cleveland Way National Trail. The inscription: In memory of the celebrated circumnavigator Captain James Cook F.R.S., A man of nautical knowledge inferior to none, in zeal prudence and energy, superior to most. Regardless of danger he opened an intercourse with the Friendly Isles and other parts of the Southern Hemisphere. He was born at Marton Oct. 27th 1728 and massacred at Owythee Feb. 14th 1779 to the inexpressible grief of his countrymen. While the art of navigation shall be cultivated
among men, whilst the spirit of enterprise, commerce and philanthropy shall animate the sons of Britain, while it shall be deemed the honour of a Christian Nation to spread civilisation and the blessings of the Christian faith among pagan and savage tribes, so long will the name of Captain Cook stand out amongst the most celebrated and most admired benefactors of the human race. As a token of respect for and admiration of the great man this monument was erected by Robert Campion Esq. of Whitby, A.D. 1827 By the permission of the owner of the Easby Estate JJ Emerson, Esq. it was restored [date obscured] 1895 by the readers of the North Eastern Daily Gazette.Statue of Sir John Franklin- Waterloo Pl, St. James's, London SW1Y 5ER, United Kingdom; GV58+3F London, United Kingdom-this statue, cast in bronze, is by the famous Yorkshire sculptor Matthew Noble; it was unveiled in 1866 and can be found located prominently in Waterloo place. The primary inscription: To the great arctic navigator and his brave companions who sacrificed their lives in completing the discovery of the North West Passage. A.D. 1847 - 8. The two sides list the crew of the Erebus and the Terror, while a front relief depicts Franklin’s funeral (artist representation).
Statue of Sir John Franklin-4 High St, Spilsby, UK; 53FW+G4 Spilsby, UK-this bronze statue is located in Franklin’s birthplace, in an open plaza located at the intersection of High and Church streets. Cast in bronze by Charles Bacon, it was unveiled in 1861. The inscription: Sir John Franklin, Discoverer of the North West Passage. Born at Spilsby April 1786, died in the Arctic regions, June 1847.
British Antarctic Survey Sledge Dog Memorial-Lensfield Rd, Cambridge CB2 1ER, United Kingdom; 54XG+8H Cambridge, United Kingdom-this bronze statue dedicated to “man’s (and woman’s) best friend” was erected outside the entrance to the British Antarctic Survey building. Designed and sculpted in two years by David Cemmick, the beautiful Husky was unveiled in 2009. The inscription: The British Antarctic Survey Sledge Dog Monument (a list of dog teams), 1,204 dogs worked in these teams from 1945 to 1993; Erected by their companions and friends, 2009. In 2015 the memorial was moved to the Scott Polar Research Institute and now stands outside the museum. Though early polar British explorers were late to recognize the true value of the Husky for polar travel, it is fitting that the breed has been honored.
The Northern Antarctic Monument-Lensfield Rd, Cambridge CB2 1ER, United Kingdom; 54XG+8H Cambridge, United Kingdom-located at the Scott Polar Research Institute along with the above Husky, this monument is half of a duo memorial to "those who lost their lives in Antarctica in pursuit of science". The design and sculpture of oak is by Oliver Barratt; it was unveiled in 2011. The two pieces form an elliptical, serving as the “mould” for the other half, located in the Falklands, and listed above under Antarctica.
British Antarctic Monument Trust Memorial-St. Paul’s Cathedral, St. Paul's Churchyard, London EC4M 8AD, United Kingdom; GW72+GM London, United Kingdom-located in the crypt on a side aisle near a Nelson tribute, this circular plaque was designed by Graeme Wilson and carved by Fergus Wessel. It is made of slate and displays a map of Antarctica, in marble. The inscription: For those who lost their lives in Antarctica in pursuit of science to benefit us all. This plaque is located not far from that honoring Sir Robert Scott, noted above.
The Scott Antarctic Memorial-Unnamed Road, Cardiff CF10 4WZ, United Kingdom; FR6Q+F8 Cardiff, United Kingdom-found at the head of Cardiff Bay in Waterfront Park next to the lock through which Scott passed when his ill fated Terra Nova expedition left Cardiff on June 15th, 1910. The complex sculpture, all in white tiles, depicts Scott man-hauling a sledge while his lost colleagues Wilson, Oates, Bowers, and Evans peer up from the snow. Other portions of the statue include a chasm, the nearby Norwegian church (as a reminder of Amundsen), and the foresails of the Terra Nova. The inscription: This memorial commemorates the Heroic Age of Antarctic Exploration and in particular Captain Robert Falcon Scott’s Scientific Expedition of 1910-1913. The memorial overlooks the point from which Scott’s expedition ship, the SS Terra Nova, left Cardiff on the 15th June 1910. Other attributions are also found on the plaque. Unfortunately, the sculpture has undergone damage from climbers and other wear; after repair it now sports a chain fence around it as a deterrent.
Bust of Petty Officer Edgar Evans-Victoria Rd, Maritime Quarter, Swansea SA1 1SN, United Kingdom; J396+4Q Swansea, United Kingdom-this white marble bust by Philip Chatfield sits in the Long Gallery of the Swansea Museum. Evans, a hometown boy who hailed from nearby Middleton and moved to Swansea at the age of six, was the first to perish upon Scott’s return from the pole. The sculpture depicts Evans in the classic harness used for man-hauling a sledge; it was unveiled in 1994 on the anniversary of Evan;s death: February 17th, 1912.
Edgar Evans Memorial Window-Rhossili SA3 1PL, United Kingdom; HP97+PJ Rhossili, Swansea, United Kingdom-this stained glass window, with beautiful blues and whites and two figures in the distance can be found in the south wall of the nave (window sIV) of St. Mary’s Church in Rhossili, Swansea. The church is located in what was Petty Officer Evans’ parish. The window is by Anne Clarkson and was installed in 2016 on the anniversary of Evans’ death, February 17th, 1912. Also in the church is a plaque dedicated to Evans, erected by Lois Evans, his widow. The inscription: To the Glory of God And in Memory of EDGAR EVANS 1st Class Petty Officer, R.N., and a member of this Parish who perished on the 17th February, 1912 when returning from the South Pole with the Southern Party of the British Antarctic Expedition under the command of Captain Robert Falcon Scott, C.V.O, R.N, ‘To seek, to strive, to find, not to yield’.
Sir John Franklin Expedition Memorial Relief-Greenwich Peninsula, London SE10 9HF, United Kingdom; FXMV+8X London, United Kingdom-this stone bas relief, located in a vestibule within the Old Greenwich Hospital Chapel is a beautiful memorial to the “lost” Franklin Expedition. Now part of the Royal Naval College, check the Royal Naval College Chapel website if interested in visiting to ensure that there is not a service, wedding, or other function that might preclude a visit.
France
Sculpture to Jean Baptiste Charcot and the crew of Pourquois-Pas?-Saint-Servan, 35400 Saint-Malo, France; JXMG+V3 Saint-Malo, France-sculpture at the beginning of promenade walk in front of Quai Sébastopol. This interesting sculpture is a replica of the original; both were created by famous icelandic artist Jonsson Einar. The original is located on shore, near where the Pourquois-Pas? shipwrecked at Fákrúðsfjörður Iceland in September 1936. The sculpture, dedicated to Charcot and his crew, was sent to Saint-Malo as a gift as the Pourquois-Pas? was was built in Saint-Servan. It was presented by the Minister of Education, Björn Bjarnasson, during an official visit in 1998.
Cairn Memorial to Jean Baptiste Charcot and crew of Pourquois-Pas?-Port de Plaisance des Sablons, 35400 Saint-Malo, France, JXQF+78 Saint-Malo, France-address is Port of Sablons; the cairn is at the base of the breakwater, just adjacent to steps descending and connecting from the “Memorial 39-45” area to the south. The cairn was constructed and inaugurated on June 1, 1956. On one side is a relief plaque of Charcot’s head. Two other plaques have been placed on two of the other sides. One inscription: To Commander Charcot and his crew; the city of Saint-Malo; the 1st of June, 1956. Second inscription: To Commander Charcot, of the crew and mission of the Pourquois-Pas?.
Bas-relief Memorial to Jean Baptiste Charcot and crew of Pourquois-Pas?-5 Quai Sébastopol, 35400 Saint-Malo, France; JXMG+W4 Saint-Malo, France; the relief is along promenade walk between the water and Quai Sébastopol-steps away from the sculpture, in the Solidor port. The fresco depicts Charcot with the three-masted Pourquois-Pas?; it was sculpted by Finistère René Quivillic and unveiled by Charcot’s granddaughter on December 15, 2006, marking the 70th anniversary of the sinking of the Pourquois-Pas?
Greenland
Monument to Sir Robert Peary-Cape York, Qaasuitsup Municipality, Greenland; 75° 54′ 38.3″ N, 66° 24′ 44.6″ W-certainly one of the most difficult to access polar monuments, this impressive obelisk has quite a story. Standing almost 60 feet high 1500 feet above sea level on the highest point of Cape York, it required its own expedition to come to fruition. The Morrissey expedition of 1932, led by Peary friend Captain Robert Bartlett, undertook the construction. Captain Bartlett placed the cornerstone of the monument, while Peary’s daughter handed Bartlett a brass cylinder which was placed and now resides in the foundation. Per the New York Times 08/23/1932: the cylinder contained copies of the Sept. 11th and 12th New York Times containing Peary’s accounts of his achieving the north pole; a copy of the Times from June 15th, 1932, the day the expedition departed New York; the Times story of the proposed monument; a picture of Peary in polar garb; a short history of the building of the monument with an autographed list of the building crew; a stone from the Peary home in Eagle Island, Maine; a needle book from the sewing basket to Peary’s mother; and lastly a replica of the flag Peary carried with him to the pole. Peary’s grandsons placed the plate covering the hole containing the cylinder. The plate inscription: This cornerstone laid by Captain Robert A. Bartlett, whose loyalty and devotion to his former commander made the expedition possible. An eight foot white “P” adorns each side of the monument. It was inaugurated by the expedition on August 22, 1932 with much fanfare.
Iceland
Bas-relief of Jean Baptiste Charcot-University of Iceland, Sturlugata 7, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland; 43P3+VM Reykjavík, Iceland-this bas-relief was unveiled on November 14, 1953 by Iceland’s prime minister Ólafur Thors. The inscription: Dr. Jean-Baptiste Charcot, Born in Paris 15.7.1867, Died at sea when his ship Pourquois-Pas? on Þormóðsskeri 16.9.1936.
Sculpture to Jean Baptiste Charcot and crew of the Pourquois-Pas?-Vattarnesvegur, Fáskrúðsfjörður, Iceland; WXGX+HM Fáskrúðsfjörður, Iceland-address is for the French Museum; sculpture is adjacent to the museum just off of the street Vattarnesvegur
Ireland
Tom Crean Memorial Garden-N86, Gurteen North, Co. Kerry, Ireland; 5W2V+CG Annascaul, County Kerry, Ireland-located on the other side of Highway N86, across the street from the South Pole Inn, the garden contains many items paying tribute to Tom Crean and his fellow explorers. The garden was established following a donation by the Crean family and inaugurated in July, 2003 with the unveiling of a beautiful bronze statue of Crean with his dogs. The sculptor was Eamonn O’Doherty. A plaque in the garden has the following inscription: The Tom Crean Memorial Garden; Tom Crean Antarctic Explorer; 1877-1938; Expeditions to Antarctica, Discovery 1901-1904, Terra Nova 1910-1913, Endurance 1914-1917; In recognition of his invaluable contribution to these expeditions and of his many acts of selfless heroism on behalf of his companions. There are multiple benches in tribute to Captain Robert Scott, Sir Ernest Shackleton, Dr. Edward Wilson, and fellow comrades Lieutenant Teddy Evans, R.N.; Chief Stoker; William Lashly, R.N. Finally, and placed most recently is a monument to Crean topped by a stone from Grytviken, taken from near Shackleton’s grave. It was dedicated by Alexandra Shackleton on June 21, 2015, and bears the following additional inscription attributed to T.S. Eliot: Who is the third who always walks beside you?
Statue of Ernest Shackleton-Athy Town Hall, Emily Square, Athy, Co. Kildare; X2R8+MM Athy, County Kildare, Ireland-located about 10 minutes from Shackleton’s birthplace of Kilkea, this statue is just outside the museum-sculpted by Mark Richards, the large bronze statue was unveiled on August 30 2016. The date was 100 years to the day that Shackleton’s crew was rescued from Elephant Island. The inauguration was attended by Shackleton’s granddaughter, the Honorable Alexandra Shackleton.
Monument to Edward Bransfield-R629, Castleredmond, Co. Cork, Ireland; VRXM+GQ Ballinacurra, County Cork, Ireland-one of the more recent polar monuments to be placed, this graceful piece of limestone resides in Bransfield’s place of birth. It was dedicated on January 25, 2020, close to the 200th anniversary of the date when Bransfield, aboard the brig Williams, sited Antarctica. The piece was sculpted by local artist Matthew Thompson. The limestone, adorned with a sextant and a penguin, sits atop a base that also pays tribute to other Irish polar explorers (you’ll have to visit to discover who). The inscription: Edward Bransfield, 1785-1852; Ships Master and Antarctic explorer from Ballinacurra, Co. Cork; Leader of the first expedition to see and chart the Antarctic Mainland on the 30th of January, 1820.
Norway
Statue of Roald Amundsen and south pole team-Fram Museum, Bygdøynesveien 39, 0286 Oslo, Norway; WM3X+9V Oslo, Norway-located at the Fram, this relatively new monument from displays Amundsen and his team of explorers who were “first to the pole”. Sculpted by Håkon Fagerås, each man is cast in bronze, stands about six feet high, and is placed on a piece of granite. The creation was unveiled 100 years to the day after the pole was reached, December 14, 1911. King Harald of Norway did the honors of the dedication.
Statue of Helmer Hanssen and dog team-Hjalmar Johansens gate 10, 9007 Tromsø, Norway; JXV2+J7 Tromsø, Norway-this beautiful monument depicting Hanssen with his sledge and dogs can be found outside the Polaria the aquarium, way up in Tromsø. They sit on a large granite block. The inscription: Helmer Hanssen 1870-1956, Nordvestpassasjen 1903-1906, Sydpolen 1910-1912, Nordøstpassasjen.
Russia
Statue of Admiral Fabian Gottlieb Thaddeus von Bellingshausen-Krasnaya Ulitsa, 8 корпус 2, St Petersburg, Russia, 197762; 9GFFXQQG+9X-to be clear this statue is in the Summer Garden of Kronstadt on the island of Kotlin, the historic home of the Russian fleet. It is not located in the Summer Garden in St. Petersburg proper. Apparently and unfortunately, the park has fallen into disrepair.
Statue of Admiral Fabian Gottlieb Thaddeus von Bellingshausen-Admiralska St, 4, Mykolaiv, Mykolaivs'ka oblast, Ukraine, 54000; XXHP+78 Mykolaiv, Mykolaiv Oblast, Ukraine-address is for the Museum of Shipbuilding and the Fleet; Bellingshausen’s statue stands on Admiralska St. just down from the museum. He stands next to his second in command on his antarctic expedition: Admiral Mikhail Petrovich Lazarev.
Scotland
Statue of John Rae-14a Victoria St, Stromness KW16 3AA, United Kingdom; XP72+9X Stromness, United Kingdom-next to Leviathan International-this large statue of John Rae stands at the harbor front in Stromness. Unveiled on September 28, 2013, the 200th birthday year of John Rae, the statue was created by North Ronaldsay sculptor Ian Scott.
Login's Well-10 S End, Stromness KW16 3DJ, United Kingdom; XM4X+WG Stromness, United Kingdom-across the street from the historic Login’s Inn, this well was where water was drawn from by several historic expeditions: Captain’s Cook, 1780, and more polar related, Franklin’s Erebus and Terror, 1845. This was Franklin’s last port of call in Europe before his final sighting off the coast of Greenland.
United States
Desk from the Resolute: the Grinnell Desk-New Bedford Whaling Museum-18 Johnny Cake Hill, New Bedford MA 02740; J3PG+6Q New Bedford, Massachusetts-this small secretary desk stems from oak timbers taken from the Resolute after it was gifted back to England and then scrapped by Queen Victoria. The desk was gifted to the museum by the family of Grinnell’s widow Sarah, in 1983.
Desk from the Resolute: The Resolute Desk-The White House-1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20500; VXX7+39 Washington, District of Columbia-the other “Resolute desk” desk residing within the US, made of oak and the largest of the three, is this one gifted to President Rutherford B. Hayes in 1880. It has been used by presidents since then, excepting Nixon, Johnson, and Ford. It is also known as a “double partners’ desk”. The panel with the presidential coat of arms was requested by president Franklin Roosevelt. It was first place in the Oval office, where it now resides, by president John F. Kennedy. The inscription: "H.M.S. 'Resolute', forming part of the expedition sent in search of Sir John Franklin in 1852, was abandoned in Latitude 74º 41' N. Longitude 101º 22' W. on 15th May 1854. She was discovered and extricated in September 1855, in Latitude 67º N. by Captain Buddington of the United States Whaler 'George Henry'. The ship was purchased, fitted out and sent to England, as a gift to Her Majesty Queen Victoria by the President and People of the United States, as a token of goodwill & friendship. This table was made from her timbers when she was broken up, and is presented by the Queen of Great Britain & Ireland, to the President of the United States, as a memorial of the courtesy and loving kindness which dictated the offer of the gift of the "Resolute'." Unfortunately, unless you have connections to the president, it is unlikely you will be able to view the desk in person.
Monument to the USS Jeannette (LCDR George W. de Long and crew)-U.S. Naval Academy Cemetery, Cromwell Way, Annapolis, MD 21402; XGQ5+3F Annapolis, Maryland-this memorial pays a tribute to Commander Charles de Long USN and his crew. Found in section two, it is the largest monument in the cemetery. It was designed by George Partridge Colvocoresses who was a drawing instructor at the Academy. Ice is draped on the cross and there is an anchor at the base of the cross. The monument was erected in October, 1890, nine years to the day after the the commander’s last diary entry. The inscription: Commemorative of the heroic officers and men of the United States Navy who perished in the Jeannette Arctic Exploring Expedition. 1881.
Monument to Sir Robert Peary-Jockey Cap, Fryeburg, ME 04037; 22CP+RV Fryeburg, Maine-when Peary lived in Fryeburg after graduation from Bowdoin College he created a mountain profile on top small Jockey Cap hill. In 1938 the family recreated the profile, erecting the present day monument. The inscription: From the original profile survey made by Robert Edwin Peary, discoverer of the north pole, made during his residence in Fryeburg 1878 - 1879, erected to his memory by the Peary family in 1938 at the suggestion of his boyhood friend Alfred E. Burton.
Meridian Plaque of Sir Robert Peary-686 Main St, Fryeburg, ME 04037; 229C+GF Fryeburg, Maine-plaque is in a field adjacent (east) to the admissions office of Fryeburg Academy-as surveyor during his time in Fryeburg, Peary created this N-S meridian; the plaque lies in a field next to Fryeburg Academy. The inscription: Fifty and four hundred feet north lie stones erected in 1883 by Admiral Robert E. Peary discoverer of the north pole, a former Fryeburg resident. These two meridian stones indicate the true north and thus enable surveyors to obtain the magnetic variation.
Statue of Rear Admiral Richard E. Byrd-Arlington National Cemetery, 8-2 Memorial Ave, Arlington, VA 22202; VWMM+9H Arlington, Virginia-this large statue stands along one of the entrance roads to the cemetery. Felix de Weldon was the artist who created the eight foot bronze statue, resting atop a four foot marble base; Byrd appears dressed in fur. The primary inscription: RICHARD EVELYN BYRD, REAR ADMIRAL UNITED STATES NAVY, OCTOBER 25, 1888-MARCH 11, 1957, UPON THE BRIGHT GLOBE HE CARVED, HIS SIGNATURE OF COURAGE, ERECTED BY NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC SOCIETY.
Monument to Captain James Cook-Captain Cook, HI 96704; F3J8+GJ Captain Cook, Hawaii-this out of the way 27 foot white obelisk is located on the shoreline in Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park and marks the approximate spot where Captain Cook was killed in 1779. It was built in 1874 on the order of Princess Likelike. The monument can be reached after an hour long hike or more easily by boat. The inscription: In memory of the great circumnavigator Captain James Cook, R.N. who discovered these islands on the 18th of January, 1778, and fell near this spot on the 14th of February, 1779. Interestingly, the land on which the monument stands was deeded to England in 1877 and is maintained by the British Consul-General office located in Los Angeles.
New Zealand
Statue of Sir Robert Scott-Christchurch Central, Christchurch 8011, New Zealand; FJ9M+GC Christchurch, New Zealand-this marble replica of the same bronze statue in London, both by Kathleen Scott, was carved by her in Carrara, Italy in 1916. The original intent was to case the replica in bronze, but the cost was prohibitive. It was unveiled one year later and dedicated by the governor-general of New Zealand, representing the monarchy. Unfortunately, it needed repairs after damage by the 2011 earthquake; it was repaired and displayed once again 100 years after its original placement, in 2017. The significance of a Scott monument in New Zealand is that both Christchurch and Lyttleton had been used bases by Scott. The inscription: I do not regret this journey, which shows that Englishmen can endure hardships, help one another, and meet death with as great fortitude as ever in the past.
Bust of Commander Frank Worsley-82 Beach Road, Akaroa 7520, New Zealand; 5XR6+6C Akaroa, New Zealand-this master navigator, successful in getting Shackleton and his colleagues from Elephant Island to South Georgia, is found looking out over the water in Akaroa. The bust was sculpted by Stephen Gleeson of Christchurch and was unveiled in 2004. The inscription: Commander Worsley was the captain of the Endurance which was crushed in the ice during Shackleton's Antarctic Expedition 1914-1916. He navigated the 23 ft James Caird 800 miles to South Georgia in an epic voyage. Subsequently all 28 crew were rescued. He was born and raised in Akaroa in 1872 and died in England in 1943.
Memorial to Ms. Chippy and Henry McNeish-PQ92+VG Wellington, New Zealand; 76 Old Karori Road, Wellington, 6012, New Zealand-as carpenter, McNeish succeeded in making the James Caird seaworthy for her Elephant Island-South Georgia Journey voyage, but McNeish was more partial to his male cat Mrs. Chippy. He never forgave Shackleton for ordering that Mrs. Chippy be killed upon abandonment of the Endurance. In 925 McNeish moved to Wellington after leaving his wife. He went through a series of jobs, ending up down on his luck and destitute. He died in 1930 and was buried at Karori. It was not until 1959 that his grave acquired a headstone thanks to the efforts of the New Zealand Antarctic Society. They came to the rescue again in 2004, both restoring McNeish’s grave and bestowing it with a bronze statue of Mrs. Chippy. The grave’s inscription: A member of the imperial trans-Antarctic expedition 1914-1917. He accompanied Shackleton on his epic boat journey from Elephant island to South Georgia.
Bust of Rear Admiral Richard E. Byrd-Unity Park, 4 Alva Street, Dunedin 9016, New Zealand; 4F8Q+MJ Dunedin, New Zealand-The National Geographic Society gifted this bust to the city of Dunedin; it resides in Unity Park. The piece was sculpted by Felix W. de Weldon, and was unveiled on October 31, 1967 by the U.S. Ambassador to New Zealand. The significance is that Byrd launched his first Antarctic expedition from Dunedin. The inscription: From Dunedin on December 2, 1928, sailed the "City of New York" and the "Eleanor Bolling" to carry to Antarctica under Admiral Byrd's command the first expedition to explore the frozen continent by air. Under the valiant leadership of the "Admiral of the Ends of the Earth," five Antarctic expeditions 1928-1957 revealed the secrets of half the great white continent.
Memorial to Rear Admiral Richard E. Byrd-Mount Victoria, Wellington 6021, New Zealand; PQ3V+5F Wellington, New Zealand-this elaborate memorial to Rear Admiral Byrd can be found at the Mt. Victoria lookout. The structure, which mimics a polar tent of the time, contains within a bronze bust of Byrd sculpted by Thomas V. Johnston. There are stones at the front from the Antarctic’s Koettlitz Glacier and Ross Island areas. The memorial was dedicated on March 11, 1962, five years after Byrd’s death. Originally with walls of white stucco, the memorial was refurbished with ceramic tiles depicting auroras. These were designed by Doreen Blumhardt. A rededication ensued, onj June 21, 1993. The primary inscription: RICHARD EVELYN BYRD, Rear Admiral, U.S.N. Born 24 October 1888 Died 11 March 1957, Ambassador of goodwill—friend of New Zealand. Several other plaques with tributes adorn the memorial.
