Sir Robert McClure, Polar Explorer and Discoverer of the North-West Passage, Born in Co. Wexford

Sir Robert John Le Mesurier McClure, a notable figure in the history of polar exploration, was born on January 28, 1807, in Wexford, Ireland. He is best known for his role in the discovery of the Northwest Passage, the sea route through the Arctic Ocean, connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.

Early Life

McClure was born into a naval family and followed in this tradition by joining the Royal Navy. His early career included service in various parts of the world, including the West Indies and the Mediterranean.

Arctic Expeditions

McClure’s most significant contribution to exploration came as part of the search for the Northwest Passage and the efforts to find Sir John Franklin’s lost expedition, which had disappeared while attempting to chart and navigate the passage.

Discovery of the Northwest Passage

In 1850, McClure was given command of HMS Investigator and set off on an expedition that would lead to his most famous achievement. In 1851, his expedition became the first to traverse the Northwest Passage. However, this was accomplished over two seasons and involved a combination of sailing and sledge travel over ice.

Challenges and Survival

McClure and his crew faced extreme conditions and were forced to abandon the Investigator after it was trapped in ice. They survived for two winters in the Arctic before being rescued by a sledge party from HMS Resolute, one of the ships sent to search for Franklin’s lost expedition.

Recognition

For his discovery, McClure was awarded the Gold Medal of the Royal Geographical Society and was later knighted. He was the first person to be credited with navigating the Northwest Passage, albeit not entirely by ship.

Later Career and Life

After his return to Britain, McClure continued to serve in the Royal Navy, eventually rising to the rank of Rear-Admiral. He retired in 1861 and passed away in 1873.

Legacy

Sir Robert McClure’s expedition played a significant role in the history of Arctic exploration. His determination and resourcefulness under challenging conditions are a notable part of the larger story of exploration during the Victorian era.

McClure’s achievement in navigating the Northwest Passage marked a major milestone in geographical exploration and significantly contributed to the understanding of the Arctic region. His journey remains a testament to the challenges and dangers faced by early polar explorers.