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LETTERS
LETTER OF THE MONTH SUPPORTED BY OLD PULTENEY WHISKY
Franklin, cannibalism… and a rubber dinghy
Re: Sternpost (Articles in India Rubber) in the April issue (CB406).
Dr John Rae’s rubber boat from his expedition to find Sir John Franklin is to be seen in the Stromness Museum, Stromness, Orkney. It is smaller than the one you illustrated from the Great Exhibition. John Rae, a local hero and name somewhat whitewashed from history, did make it back and reported the likely demise and approximate location of Franklin’s ships Erebus and Terror. He fell foul of Lady Franklin and her friend Charles Dickens and the RN establishment for hinting at cannibalism among the crew. The last survivors were later found to have died of lead poisoning from defective tinned foods and exposure. And yes, cannibalism among the last survivors. The John Rae Society is working hard to set all records straight on the Franklin, Rae and NW passage history. Maybe it’s a case of inverse size matters with 19th-century rubber maritime technology? Keep up the good work.
Rod Daniel
I am rebuilding a 1/12 scale nine-channel RC pilot cutter (enc so far with temporary sails). It had the name Herga 2 on it and I know the original Herga was built in 1902 but cannot find any photos or drawings or other information. Does anyone know anything about the original Herga?
Ian Nash
Seeking the 12-M Baranquilla
I am writing to you seeking some help, as I’m busy with an enormous task doing research on all 12-M yachts and their whereabouts, and eventually the owners. I am looking for the owner of the boat the Barranquilla K12 which was owned by mister Harry Hyams. Unfortunately, the owner passed away several years ago but there is nothing to find about the boat, nor does the foundation mention the boat anywhere. As the boat was based in the UK, perhaps someone has some information on her?
Robert Henry de Haer, 12mR Registrar
