Guy Lochhead, 29/08/10
Robert Bartlett led numerous scientific Arctic expeditions, directed important ice breaking, saved the lives of the failed Karluk and Crocker Land expeditions, and began several other important scientific expeditions to the Arctic. His boyhood home, Hawthorne Cottage, is a Historic Site of Canada displaying information and memorabilia of his life, as well as a series of theatrical performances dramatising his life. All revenue earned through the museum is directly invested in its upkeep. I haven’t really done Bartlett’s life justice here, but he was a remarkable figure. I’m not 100% sure about his inclusion because of his enthusiasm for sealing, so I’ll read his log (published as ‘The Log of Bob Bartlett’) and give it some proper informed thought. I will also try to visit Hawthorne Cottage in Brigus, Newfoundland and perhaps include something from there.