The latest exhibition on display at the record office throws light on some of the most important people in life of Arctic explorer Sir John Franklin, each with their own fascinating story.
There are his two wives, the poetic Eleanor, who died tragically young, and the formidable Jane, Lady Franklin, one of the celebrities of the Victorian age. There is also his daughter Eleanor, together with her clergyman husband John Philip Gell and their talented children.
There are also his friends and colleagues, noted explorers in their own right, such as Sir Edward Parry, Sir John Ross and Sir Leopold McClintock and John Rae, as well as people who briefly but spectacularly crossed his path such as the native North American known as Miss Green Stockings.
Items on display include (possibly) one of the last letters written by John Franklin, dated 6 July 1845. Franklin and his expedition were last seen by Europeans only a few weeks later, on 26 July, after which they were never heard of again.
Visit us to see this and many more items associated with this fascinating individual and his incredible story.
This free exhibition runs from 23rd May – 13th September.
Derbyshire Record Office
New St
Matlock
DE4 3FE