The Explorers Podcast HMS Investigator and the Northwest Passage – Part 4 – The Passage Conquered
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Oct 8, 2025 Captain Robert McClure and his crew navigate their way through the treacherous Northwest Passage using sledge journeys for supplies. Winter onboard is lightened by theatrical performances and lectures to boost morale. Tensions rise as they face challenges like discovering missing journals and dealing with the effects of evacuation orders. The return to England is met with public acclaim, but McClure faces a court-martial. The podcast explores the expedition's legacy, including the tragic fate of Franklin's crew and the eventual find of the Investigator wreck.
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Winter Entertainment Kept Morale Strong
- The crews staged plays, variety shows, and twice-a-week lectures to keep morale up during the long Arctic darkness.
- These entertainments and routines helped the men stay healthy and mentally resilient through winter 1853-54.
Epic 71-Day Sledge Salvage
- A six-man sledge team led by Frederick J. Crabb traveled roughly 1,000 miles round-trip to Mercy Bay and back in 71 days.
- They salvaged supplies from the Investigator and proved the ship was doomed, making it one of the era's great sledging feats.
Orders Versus Judgment In Arctic Command
- Sir Edward Belcher ordered evacuation, but Captain Henry Kellett argued to keep 50 men with the ships to try saving them.
- That tension shows how Arctic command decisions balanced risk, obedience, and ship preservation.
