An examination, translation and analysis of pencil inscriptions made under the bunks in the hut at Cape Adare by members of Borchgrevink's British Antarctic Expedition, 1898–1900

Abstract

ABSTRACT28 individual poems, notes, or drawings found and photographed under the bunks at Borchgrevink's hut at Cape Adare, Antarctica during two short visits on 1 February and 19 February 2015, are catalogued, translated and in many cases a source is identified. It has been possible to read and translate 24 of 28 markings. The relevance of a number of quotations, which express unhappiness with the leadership of the expedition and the emotional reaction of expedition members, are examined and placed in the context of the first over-wintering. Further targeted investigation, requiring specific permission, is suggested.