Going for the story
For centuries, people looked for a polar route from Europe to China but efforts were hampered by severe weather and ice. Though many had tried, many had to turn back or die. The frozen arctic lay unknown. Was it an ice covered sea or a land filled with strange animals?
In 1894, Walter Wellman was asked by his paper to find out. He organized and led an expedition to reach the North Pole, a task he wanted to accomplish before any of his competitors.
This was not his only attempt. Between 1894 and 1909, Wellman led five different expeditions--two surface attempts and three by air--into the frozen north to further exploration.
Lack of success did not deter him from attempting a whole new adventure. One that would catch everyone’s eye and astound the world.
In 1894, Walter Wellman was asked by his paper to find out. He organized and led an expedition to reach the North Pole, a task he wanted to accomplish before any of his competitors.
This was not his only attempt. Between 1894 and 1909, Wellman led five different expeditions--two surface attempts and three by air--into the frozen north to further exploration.
Lack of success did not deter him from attempting a whole new adventure. One that would catch everyone’s eye and astound the world.
Why does Santa live at the North Pole?
Did you ever wonder why Santa Claus lives at the North Pole? Sure, the remote location probably provides good security, an abundance of reindeer, and—being the largest employer in the area—low labor costs, but the supply problems. Just think of it. How do you get the raw materials there?
Didn’t find an answer to that question but, while doing research for Explorer, my next book, I found there is a historical relationship between the North Pole and spiritual states. Further, this belief is held by multiple cultures with origins lost in mythology. For more, check Wikipedia, under North Pole.
