A Journey from Prince of Wales’s Fort in Hudson’s Bay, to the Northern Ocean. Undertaken by Order of the Hudson’s Bay Company, for the Discovery of Copper Mines, a North West Passage, &c. In the Years 1769, 1770, 1771, & 1772

Hearne was an English explorer, fur-trader, author, and naturalist. He was the first European to make an overland excursion across northern Canada to the Arctic Ocean. Published three years after his death, Hearne’s journals record three journeys. His first expedition, in November 1769, lasted only a month as they were too late in the season and his Indian guides abandoned him. In February 1770, Hearne set out once again with new Indian guides. They faced several periods of feast and famine as they explored much desolate territory to the west of Hudson’s Bay and endured a difficult return in which their supplies were stolen and Hearne’s quadrant broken. They arrived back at Hudson’s Bay in November 1770. Twelve days later, Hearne set out once again, this time with an Indian chief who knew the terrain well and set a fast pace. In July 1771 they reached the Coppermine River and then the Arctic Ocean. He thus established there was no northwest passage through the continent at lower latitudes. On their return, he became the first European to see Great Slave Lake. Hearne eventually returned to Prince of Wale’s Fort in June 1772 having traveled 5000 miles. A classic and important work.

Sabin 31181, TPL 445.