The Franklin Expedition from First to Last

Richard King's letters detail his campaign to find the missing Franklin expedition. The Franklin Expedition from First to Last highlights his insights and eventual vindication.

This collection of letters by Arctic traveler and surgeon Richard King (1810/11–76), published in 1855, is an intriguing account of his efforts to locate the missing Franklin expedition. In a time when officials largely ignored his insights, King’s dedication to the cause shines through his correspondence, which aimed to persuade the government and the Admiralty of his theories regarding the expedition's fate. His letters provide a unique perspective on the challenges faced during polar exploration and the significance of the Franklin expedition in the annals of history.

Having previously participated in a rescue mission for John Ross in the Arctic during the 1830s, King believed he had the expertise to suggest potential locations for the missing party led by Sir John Franklin, who vanished in 1845. In this collection, The Franklin Expedition from First to Last, King articulates his reasoning that the expedition could be found near the mouth of the Great Fish River. Despite his willingness to lead a search mission, his pleas fell on deaf ears, leaving him to advocate for the cause through his writings.

Ultimately, by 1859, the remains of the Franklin party were discovered close to the area King had identified. His letters not only narrate his campaign but also illuminate a significant chapter in the history of polar exploration and the evolving understanding of the Canadian Arctic. This collection serves as a valuable resource for anyone interested in the legacy of the Franklin expedition and the efforts surrounding it.