Images(2)

Getting ready for South Pole

Date1901-1903

Object numberANMS1475[005]

NamePhotograph

MediumBlack and white photographic print on paper

DimensionsOverall: 83 × 108 mm

ClassificationsPhotographs

Credit LineAustralian National Maritime Museum Collection Gift from Glenn Alfred Thorpe

Terms

DescriptionPhotograph taken during the British National Antarctic Expedition (1901-1903), also known as the DISCOVERY Expedition. The 13 photographs in this series were taken by an unidentified expedition member or members and presented to Lyttleton harbour pilot Alfred Thorpe. Images include DISCOVERY, expedition members, seals, penguins, phonies, sledges and Antarctic landscapes. The Discovery Expedition did not carry an official photographer, and photographic documentation relied on general expedition members. Part of a collection of objects assembled by Alfred Thorpe (c. 1852 – 1931) relating to his merchant and naval service career and association with Antarctic exploration while serving as pilot and harbour master at Lyttelton Harbour, New Zealand. The collection is illustrative of the important role Lyttelton paid in Antarctic exploration in the early 20th century, as both the final major port vessels of exploration and their relief ships visited on their journey south, and also the first they put in at on their return. SignificanceThis collection of objects highlights the importance of the port of Lyttleton in early 20th century Antarctic exploration and the role of pilots and harbour masters in supporting the crews and vessels sailing south. The collection not only illustrates the professional relationship between port staff and ships’ crews, but also the high degree of mutual respect the association engendered. The close working association between mariners and key maritime roles, such as pilot and harbour master, is apparent in this collection.