Sponsor a window appeal: You have made a difference
21/03/2022
Earlier this week, we had news that our windows at Bransfield House had been supported and sponsored – by you – our Antarctic family at home.
Antarctica is a unique place to care for heritage. Unlike historic buildings and sites in Europe or the United States which can be continually monitored, the long periods of time where we cannot be on site - notably during sub-zero winters - can present challenges and surprises for the conservation team. This season was particularly exceptional with our first feasible return to Antarctica in two years.
Pictured: A snowy thank you from everyone - and every penguin - at Port Lockroy and HQ
Over the past month, friends and donors around the world have stepped in to donate in support of our urgent Sponsor a Window appeal. We are thankful to all of you who gave. The support we receive from the Antarctic community is more than just a gift to enable the conservation itself. When you are 10,000 miles away, battling daily sleet and icey wind, our team thrive on knowing that people at home are thinking of Port Lockroy, wanting to get involved and help support important conservation work.
The maintenance of heritage in Antarctica is a constant task. But, thanks to your support the museum and post office remain dry and protected for another winter, ready to reopen with welcoming smiles and the distinctive aroma of our gentoo neighbours later this year. Do stay tuned.
In the meantime, from all of us here, thank you.
Camilla Johns
Head of Development
Many historic expeditions and explorers, including the men of Operation Tabarin (a top secret mission to Antarctica during World War II) have followed this same route to Antarctica. Whilst I set sail on a modern ship, the 14 men of Operation Tabarin left Stanley on 2 small ships, one of which was not ice strengthened. Not only did they have the dangers of a polar expedition in front of them, but also the potential threat of enemy forces during WWII.
This film captures the 134ft HMS William Scorseby at sea in Feb 1944 (Reproduced courtesy of BAS Archives, Ref AD6/16/1944/1.1).We, like our polar ancestors, are now heading South through the furious 50°'s and eventually to the screaming 60°’s, where the winds batter the Southern Ocean, with terrifying intensity. I cannot begin to imagine what it would have been on The Scorseby, with the men of Operation Tabarin in such weather. I am hoping to experience some of the beauty and wonder of Antarctica's wildlife on my journey there. With perhaps a small bit of Antarctic adventure thrown in. Although perhaps I should be careful what I wish for!
