The first sleding party from the ship, led by E H Shackleton

E H Shackleton, Dr Edward Wilson and Mr Hartley Ferrar (the Geologist) in harness to the sledge. The sledge carries their personal flags. The three of them were dressed in Burberry cloth. On the sledge can be seen a Norwegian pram (skiff) in case the ice broke up, and a tent. The load also included furs and 14 days' food. In the background is a slope of hills, with the sweep of snow coming down.

This photograph was published in the Illustrated London News, 4 July 1903.

This was the first official sledging journey of the expedition, led by Shackleton. The three left the Discovery just before midday on the 19th. The aim of the journey was to reach While Island some 18 miles away, which they did at midnight on 20 February.

Object Details

ID: ALB0346.19
Type: Photographic print
Display location: Not on display
Creator: Unknown
Date made: 19 February 1902
People: Shackleton, Ernest Henry
Credit: National Maritime Museum, Greenwich, London, Bernard Collection
Measurements: Overall: 78 mm x 103 mm
Parts: British National Antarctic Expedition, 1901-1903 (Photograph album)