Nimrod Expedition

1907–1909

Shackleton’s first expedition as leader, the Nimrod set out to reach the South Pole and conduct extensive scientific research. Though the Pole eluded them, the team set a new “Farthest South” record at 88° 23′ S and achieved major geological and geographical discoveries.

Timeline of Events

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    Departure

    Nimrod sets sail from New Zealand with 15 men and 10 ponies.

    1907

    11 August

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    Icebergs Sighted

    Towline cut; Nimrod enters pack ice under her own power.

    1908

    14 January

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    Cape Royds Base Established

    Blocked by sea ice at Hut Point, the crew builds a hut at Cape Royds.

    3 February

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    Mount Erebus Ascent

    First ascent of Erebus by Mawson, David, and Mackay.

    5–11 March

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    Aurora Australis Printed

    30 copies of the first book printed in Antarctica, bound using supply materials.

    Winter

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    Southern Journey Begins

    Shackleton, Adams, Marshall, and Wild set out for the Pole.

    29 October

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    Record Broken

    They reach 88° 23′ S—just 112 miles from the South Pole.

    1909

    9 January

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    Return to Ship

    Entire party rescued and Nimrod departs Antarctica.

    4 March

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    New Zealand Landing

    Shackleton cables his full report to the Daily Mail.

    23 March

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    London Return

    Shackleton welcomed home by a cheering crowd at Charing Cross.

    14 June

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Highlights and Achievements

  • Set new record for Farthest South.
  • First ascent of Mount Erebus.
  • Created Aurora Australis, Antarctica’s first printed book.
  • Extensive scientific research including geology and biology

Artefacts on Display

PLAN YOUR VISIT

Nimrod Sledge

Nimrod sledge used by Shackleton’s team during their daring South Pole attempt in 1908–09 expedition.

(from left to right) Ernest Shackleton, Captain Robert Falcon Scott and Edward Wilson (Seamus Collection)

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