Schwatka: The Life of Frederick Schwatka (1848-1892), M.D., Arctic Explorer, Cavalry Officer – A Précis

Schwatka, was a West Point graduate and cavalry lieutenant in the Indian Wars (1871-75). He later led an Arctic overland expedition (1878-80) to search for clues to the disappearance of Sir John Franklin and his crew. This was the longest sledge trip ever made, over 3100 miles, and made his reputation as America’s foremost Arctic explorer. After resigning from the army, he and a party constructed a raft at the headwaters of the Yukon River and proceeded to traverse its entire 2,000 mile length (1883-84). Finally, in 1886, Schwatka made an attempt to be the first to climb Mount Saint Elias, reaching halfway.