Antarctic publication, Aurora Australis

The collection comprises of a copy of the publication.

The first book to be printed in Antarctica, Aurora Australis, was produced during the winter of 1908 by members of the British Antarctic Expedition, 1907-1909 (leader Ernest Henry Shackleton), at the expedition base at Cape Royds.

The British printing firm of Joseph Causton & Sons lent the printing press, a small etching press as well as donating the paper, ink and type. The firm also arranged for three weeks of instruction in printing and typesetting for Ernest Joyce and John Robert Francis [Frank] Wild, and in lithography and plate etching for George Marston.

Intended as an anthology rather than a topical magazine, Aurora Australis was edited by Shackleton, who encouraged contributions from other expedition members. The book was bound by Bernard Day in venesta boards from the expedition's packing cases. Copies today tend to be known for the lettering on these boards, e.g. 'Butter', etc.

The collection is arranged chronologically.

By appointment.

Some materials deposited at the Institute are NOT owned by the Institute. In such cases the archivist will advise about any requirements imposed by the owner. These may include seeking permission to read, extended closure, or other specific conditions.

Anyone wishing to consult material should ensure they note the entire MS reference and the name of the originator.

The term holograph is used when the item is wholly in the handwriting of the author. The term autograph is used when the author has signed the item.

Descriptions compiled by N. Boneham, Assistant Archivist with assistance from R. Stancombe and reference to Robert Keith Headland Antarctic Chronology, unpublished corrected revision of Chronological list of Antarctic expeditions and related historical events, (1 December 2001) Cambridge University Press (1989) ISBN 0521309034 Aurora Australis edited by Ernest Henry Shackleton, Bluntisham Books and Paradigm Press, Harleston (1986) SPRI Library Shelf (#42;7)91(08)[1907-1909 Shackleton]

Clive Holland Manuscripts in the Scott Polar Research Institute, Cambridge, England - a catalogue, Garland Publishing New York and London (1982) ISBN 0824093941.

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Further accessions possible.