oRAL HISTORY PROJECT
The UKAHT, in collaboration with the British
Antarctic Survey (BAS), BAS Club and the Scott Polar Research
Institute (SPRI), is underpinning an ambitious oral history project
which aims to capture the recollections of those extraordinary,
dedicated and often heroic individuals who have worked in the polar
regions.
Although the official History of BAS, its
predecessors (Operation Tabarin, the Falkland Island Dependencies
Survey) and SPRI is well documented, it rarely provides an insight
into relationships, culture, decisions and policy that first hand
accounts of activities and events do. By recording the
reminiscences of these polar people, a fascinating history will be
preserved and made accessible for generations to come.
A team of volunteers has been recruited to help
with the project. Their role consists mainly of assembling
background material at BAS archives about each interviewee in order
that the experienced interviewers may prepare adequately.
Interviews are conducted either at home or at Antarctic reunions
using a voice recorder and/or film. Completed interviews are
currently stored at BAS archives.
Contrary to popular belief, interviewees don’t need to be as old as
Port Lockroy either! Individuals who have been involved relatively
recently are also invited to participate. Around fifty people have
already been interviewed, with service dates ranging from the early
1940’s to the present day.Education
Antarctica is a potentially superb and inspiring teaching vehicle. The study of Antarctica embraces history, geography, every known branch of science, environmental issues, international politics and cooperation, international law, and the motivation and performance of man himself in a very hostile setting. This interwoven web of knowledge is unique, continues to develop and needs to be put to good use. You can read more about Britain's Antarctic heritage in our booklet. Copies are available from the Trust.
Background
The use of Antarctica, the only continent on Planet Earth not permanently populated by man, is governed by the Antarctic Treaty of 1959. It came into force 23 June 1961 and is one of the most successful international treaties ever to have been negotiated. The Treaty established Antarctica as a military and nuclear free area devoted only to the cause of scientific research. It froze all territorial claims. It has addressed successfully major environmental issues such as minerals exploitation and wildlife protection. The treaty remains relevant. For more information see www.ats.aq
Way Ahead
The Antarctic Heritage Trust has supported a number of institutions in the UK whose aim is to educate. These include: Scott Polar Research Institute in Cambridge, Haslemere Museum, Discovery Point Antarctic Museum in Dundee, Captain Cook Memorial Museum in Whitby, Plymouth City Museum and Art Gallery, and The Oates Museum Field Studies Centre in Selborne. |
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Contact us
 Mrs Rachel Morgan
Kingcoed Farm
Usk, Monmouthshire
NP15 1DS
United Kingdom
info@ukaht.org
+44 (0) 1291 690305
| Donations to the Trust |
You can make a donation online through Charity Choice
Or please download a donation form here
Or send a cheque payable to UKAHT and send to:
UKAHT
Kingcoed Farm Usk
NP15 1DS |
Antarctic Maps Overview
Click on Map 1, Map 2 or Map 3 to download a detailed map
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